José Firmino Aguilar Madeira

Coordinator Professor at ADM/ISEL/IPL | Integrated Researcher at IDMEC/IST/ULisboa | Optimization & Decision Sciences

Submitted Articles

  1. J.F.A. Madeira. "GLODS-SI: Scale-Invariant Global-Local Direct Search for Engineering Design Optimization". (2026). Submitted.

    Keywords: global optimization, scale invariance, derivative-free optimization, GLODS algorithm, engineering design

  2. J.F.A. Madeira. "Direct Multisearch for Multiobjective Optimization: A Scale-Invariant Approach (DMS-SI)". (2026). Submitted.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, scale invariance, DMS algorithm, derivative-free optimization, Pareto front

  3. J.F.A. Madeira. "A Two-Space Scale-Invariant Framework for Derivative-Free Optimization". (2026). Submitted.

    Keywords: derivative-free optimization, scale invariance, algorithmic framework, Decision Sciences

  4. J.F.A. Madeira. "Deterministic Neighborhood Rotation (DNR) for Categorical Variables in Derivative-Free Optimization". (2026). Submitted.

    Keywords: categorical variables, derivative-free optimization, combinatorial Decision Sciences, mixed-variable optimization

Journal Articles

  1. F. Alves, J. Marques, J.F.A. Madeira, R. Baptista, and V. Infante. "Sustainable design of train seats using finite element analysis and multiobjective optimization". Mechanics Based Design of Structures and Machines, 2025. doi: 10.1080/15397734.2025.2498103.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, sustainable design, finite element analysis, railway engineering, Decision Sciences

  2. P.A. Magalhães, A.L. Araújo, and J.F.A. Madeira. "Multimodal optimization of piezoelectric patches number and placement for effective structural vibration reduction". Acta Mechanica, 2025. doi: 10.1007/s00707-025-04351-4.

    Keywords: multimodal optimization, piezoelectric patches, optimal placement, vibration reduction, derivative-free optimization

  3. T.H.V. Pires, J.F.A. Madeira, A.P.G. Castro, and P.R. Fernandes. "Direct MultiSearch optimization of TPMS scaffolds for bone tissue engineering". Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine (2024). doi: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2024.108461.

    Keywords: DMS algorithm, biomedical optimization, tissue engineering, scaffold design, multi-objective optimization

  4. B.R. Cotrim, A.L. Araujo, and J.F.A. Madeira. "Optimal resistive shunted damping configurations for multi-modal noise reduction in sandwich panels". Acta Mechanica, 234(1):221–237, 2023. doi: 10.1007/s00707-022-03397-y.

    Keywords: shunted damping optimization, noise reduction, sandwich panels, multi-modal optimization

  5. R. Baptista, V. Infante, and J.F.A. Madeira. "Optimization of a cruciform specimen for fatigue crack growth under in and out-of-phase in-plane biaxial loading conditions". Mechanics of Advanced Materials and Structures, 30(8):1649–1666, 2023. doi: 10.1080/15376494.2022.2038740.

    Keywords: specimen optimization, fatigue crack growth, biaxial loading, structural design optimization

  6. F. Moleiro, J.F.A. Madeira, E. Carrera, and A.J.M. Ferreira. "Thermo-mechanical design optimization of symmetric and non-symmetric sandwich plates with ceramic-metal-ceramic functionally graded core to minimize stress, deformation and mass". Composite Structures, 276:114496, 2021. doi: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2021.114496.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, functionally graded materials, thermo-mechanical design, sandwich plates

  7. J.M.P.B.C. Castro, M. Fontana, A.L. Araujo, and J.F.A. Madeira. "Optimization of a composite impact attenuator for a formula student car". Mechanics of Advanced Materials and Structures, 28(18):1858–1868, 2021. doi: 10.1080/15376494.2020.1712627.

    Keywords: composite optimization, crashworthiness, impact attenuator, multi-objective design

  8. A.L. Araujo and J.F.A. Madeira. "Multiobjective optimization solutions for noise reduction in composite sandwich panels using active control". Composite Structures, 247:112440, 2020. doi: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2020.112440.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, noise reduction, active control, composite sandwich panels, DMS algorithm

  9. M. Fontana, A.L. Araujo, and J.F.A. Madeira. "Optimization of a thin-walled composite crash absorber". Thin-Walled Structures, 155:106826, 2020. doi: 10.1016/j.tws.2020.106826.

    Keywords: structural optimization, crashworthiness, thin-walled composites, energy absorption

  10. J.F.A. Madeira and A.L. Araujo. "Optimal distribution of active piezoelectric elements for noise attenuation in sandwich panels". International Journal of Smart and Nano Materials, 11(4):400–416, 2020. doi: 10.1080/19475411.2020.1829159.

    Keywords: optimal placement, piezoelectric elements, noise attenuation, smart materials, derivative-free optimization

  11. J.F.A. Madeira, A.L. Araujo, C.M. Mota Soares, and C.A. Mota Soares. "Multiobjective optimization for vibration reduction in composite plate structures using constrained layer damping". Computers & Structures, 232:105810, 2020. doi: 10.1016/j.compstruc.2017.07.012.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, vibration reduction, constrained layer damping, DMS algorithm

  12. F. Moleiro, J.F.A. Madeira, E. Carrera, and J.N. Reddy. "Design optimization of functionally graded plates under thermo-mechanical loadings to minimize stress, deformation and mass". Composite Structures, 245:112360, 2020. doi: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2020.112360.

    Keywords: design optimization, functionally graded plates, thermo-mechanical loading, multi-objective optimization

  13. A.L. Araujo and J.F.A. Madeira. "Optimal passive shunted damping configurations for noise reduction in sandwich panels". Journal of Vibration and Control, 2020. doi: 10.1177/1077546320910542.

    Keywords: passive damping optimization, noise reduction, shunted piezoelectric, sandwich panels

  14. M. Garrido, J.F.A. Madeira, M. Proença, and J.R. Correia. "Multi-objective optimization of pultruded composite sandwich panels for building floor rehabilitation". Construction and Building Materials, 198:465–478, 2019. doi: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2018.11.259.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, pultruded composites, building rehabilitation, structural design

  15. V. Infante, J.F.A. Madeira, R.B. Ruben, F. Moleiro, and S. Teixeira de Freitas. "Characterization and optimization of hybrid carbon-glass epoxy composites under combined loading". Journal of Composite Materials, 53(18):2593–2605, 2019. doi: 10.1177/0021998319834673.

    Keywords: hybrid composite optimization, material characterization, combined loading, structural design

  16. V.M.F. Correia, J.F.A. Madeira, A.L. Araujo, and C.M. Mota Soares. "Multiobjective optimization of functionally graded material plates with thermo-mechanical loading". Composite Structures, 207:845–857, 2019. doi: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2018.09.098.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, functionally graded materials, thermo-mechanical analysis, Pareto front

  17. A.L. Custódio and J.F.A. Madeira. "MultiGLODS: global and local multiobjective optimization using direct search". Journal of Global Optimization, 72(2):323–345, 2018. doi: 10.1007/s10898-018-0618-1.

    Keywords: MultiGLODS algorithm, global optimization, multi-objective optimization, derivative-free direct search, Decision Sciences

  18. C.M.C. Roque and J.F.A. Madeira. "RBF-FD meshless optimization using direct search (GLODS) in the analysis of composite plates". Engineering Analysis with Boundary Elements, 92:114–123, 2018. doi: 10.1016/j.enganabound.2017.10.019.

    Keywords: GLODS algorithm, meshless methods, radial basis functions, composite plate analysis

  19. K.P. Jayachandran, J.F.A. Madeira, J.M. Guedes, and H.C. Rodrigues. "Laminate composite magnetoelectric multiferroics optimized by global derivative-free optimization method". Computational Materials Science, 148:190–199, 2018. doi: 10.1016/j.commatsci.2018.02.045.

    Keywords: global derivative-free optimization, multiferroics, material design, GLODS algorithm

  20. P.J.P. Moita, J.F.A. Madeira, A.J.J. Valido, and J.B. Cardoso. "Optimal multiobjective design of a vehicle restraint system using pre-acting control: A limiting performance analysis". Multidiscipline Modeling in Materials and Structures, 14(4):756–768, 2018. doi: 10.1108/MMMS-09-2017-0100.

    Keywords: multi-objective vehicle design, restraint system optimization, safety engineering, Decision Sciences

  21. V.M. Franco Correia, J.F. Aguilar Madeira, A.L. Araujo, and C.M. Mota Soares. "Multiobjective optimization of ceramic-metal functionally graded plates using a higher order model". Composite Structures, 183:146–160, 2018. doi: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2017.02.013.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, functionally graded plates, higher order model, structural design

  22. H. Magalhães, J. Pombo, J. Ambrósio, and J.F.A. Madeira. "Rail vehicle design optimization for operation in a mountainous railway track". Innovative Infrastructure Solutions, 2(1), 2017. doi: 10.1007/s41062-017-0088-1.

    Keywords: rail vehicle optimization, railway engineering, operational performance, infrastructure Decision Sciences

  23. N.F. Luis, J.F.A. Madeira, A.L. Araujo, and A.J.M. Ferreira. "Active vibration attenuation in viscoelastic laminated composite panels using multiobjective optimization". Composites Part B: Engineering, 128:53–66, 2017. doi: 10.1016/j.compositesb.2017.07.002.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, vibration attenuation, viscoelastic composites, active control, DMS algorithm

  24. V.M. Franco Correia, J.F. Aguilar Madeira, A.L. Araujo, and C.M. Mota Soares. "Multiobjective design optimization of laminated composite plates with piezoelectric layers". Composite Structures, 169:10–20, 2017. doi: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2016.09.052.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, piezoelectric layers, composite plate design, DMS algorithm

  25. J.F.A. Madeira, A.L. Araujo, and C.M. Mota Soares. "Multiobjective optimization of constrained layer damping treatments in composite plate structures". Mechanics of Advanced Materials and Structures, 24(5):427–436, 2017. doi: 10.1080/15376494.2016.1190427.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, constrained layer damping, composite structures, vibration control

  26. S.M.C. Monte, V. Infante, J.F.A. Madeira, and F. Moleiro. "Optimization of fibers orientation in a composite specimen". Mechanics of Advanced Materials and Structures, 24(5):410–416, 2017. doi: 10.1080/15376494.2016.1191099.

    Keywords: fiber orientation optimization, composite design, structural optimization, DMS algorithm

  27. J.F.A. Madeira. "Design of a composite crash box for a Formula Student team car: preliminary testing and model tuning". International Journal of Automotive Composites, 3(2-4):237–250, 2017. doi: 10.1504/IJAUTOC.2017.091419.

    Keywords: composite design optimization, crashworthiness, automotive engineering, model calibration

  28. R. Segurado, J.F.A. Madeira, M. Costa, N. Duic, and M.G. Carvalho. "Optimization of a wind powered desalination and pumped hydro storage system". Applied Energy, 177:487–499, 2016. doi: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2016.05.125.

    Keywords: energy systems optimization, renewable energy, desalination, multi-objective Decision Sciences

  29. H. Magalhães, J.F.A. Madeira, J. Ambrósio, and J. Pombo. "Railway vehicle performance optimisation using virtual homologation". Vehicle System Dynamics, 54(9):1177–1207, 2016. doi: 10.1080/00423114.2016.1196821.

    Keywords: railway vehicle optimization, virtual homologation, dynamic simulation, transport Decision Sciences

  30. R. Baptista, R.A. Cláudio, L. Reis, J.F.A. Madeira, and M. Freitas. "Numerical study of in-plane biaxial fatigue crack growth with different phase shift angle loadings on optimal specimen geometries". Theoretical and Applied Fracture Mechanics, 85:16–25, 2016. doi: 10.1016/j.tafmec.2016.08.025.

    Keywords: fatigue optimization, biaxial loading, specimen geometry, fracture mechanics

  31. R. Baptista, R.A. Claudio, L. Reis, J.F.A. Madeira, I. Guelho, and M. Freitas. "Optimization of cruciform specimens for biaxial fatigue loading with direct multi search". Theoretical and Applied Fracture Mechanics, 80:65–72, 2015. doi: 10.1016/j.tafmec.2015.06.009.

    Keywords: DMS algorithm, specimen optimization, biaxial fatigue, structural testing

  32. J.F.A. Madeira, J. Dias, and N. Silvestre. "Multiobjective optimization of cold-formed steel columns". Thin-Walled Structures, 96:29–38, 2015. doi: 10.1016/j.tws.2015.07.025.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, cold-formed steel, structural design, Pareto front

  33. M. Leite, A. Silva, E. Henriques, and J.F.A. Madeira. "Materials selection for a set of multiple parts considering manufacturing costs and weight reduction with structural isoperformance using direct multisearch optimization". Structural and Multidisciplinary Optimization, 52(4):635–644, 2015. doi: 10.1007/s00158-015-1247-7.

    Keywords: DMS algorithm, materials selection, multi-objective Decision Sciences, manufacturing optimization

  34. J.F.A. Madeira, A.L. Araujo, C.M. Mota Soares, C.A. Mota Soares, and A.J.M. Ferreira. "Multiobjective design of viscoelastic laminated composite sandwich panels". Composites Part B: Engineering, 77:391–401, 2015. doi: 10.1016/j.compositesb.2015.03.025.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, viscoelastic composites, sandwich panel design, DMS algorithm

  35. A.L. Custódio and J.F.A. Madeira. "GLODS: Global and Local Optimization using Direct Search". Journal of Global Optimization, 62(1):1–28, 2015. doi: 10.1007/s10898-014-0224-9.

    Keywords: GLODS algorithm, global optimization, derivative-free optimization, direct search methods, Decision Sciences

  36. J.F.A. Madeira, A.L. Araujo, C.M. Mota Soares, and C.A. Mota Soares. "Multiobjective optimization of viscoelastic laminated sandwich structures using the Direct MultiSearch method". Computers & Structures, 147:229–235, 2015. doi: 10.1016/j.compstruc.2014.09.009.

    Keywords: DMS algorithm, multi-objective optimization, viscoelastic structures, sandwich panel design

  37. C.M.C. Roque, J.F.A. Madeira, and A.J.M. Ferreira. "Multiobjective optimization for node adaptation in the analysis of composite plates using a meshless collocation method". Engineering Analysis with Boundary Elements, 50:109–116, 2015. doi: 10.1016/j.enganabound.2014.08.006.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, meshless methods, node adaptation, composite plate analysis

  38. R. Baptista, R.A. Claudio, L. Reis, I. Guelho, M. Freitas, and J.F.A. Madeira. "Design optimization of cruciform specimens for biaxial fatigue loading". Frattura ed Integrità Strutturale, 30:118–126, 2014. doi: 10.3221/IGF-ESIS.30.16.

    Keywords: specimen design optimization, biaxial fatigue, structural testing, DMS algorithm

  39. C.M.C. Roque, J.F.A. Madeira, and A.J.M. Ferreira. "Node adaptation for global collocation with radial basis functions using direct multisearch for multiobjective optimization". Engineering Analysis with Boundary Elements, 39:5–14, 2014. doi: 10.1016/j.enganabound.2013.10.012.

    Keywords: DMS algorithm, radial basis functions, global collocation, multi-objective optimization

  40. A.L. Araujo, J.F.A. Madeira, C.M. Mota Soares, and C.A. Mota Soares. "Optimal design for active damping in sandwich structures using the Direct MultiSearch method". Composite Structures, 105:29–34, 2013. doi: 10.1016/j.compstruct.2013.04.044.

    Keywords: DMS algorithm, active damping, sandwich structures, optimal design

  41. A.L. Custódio, J.F.A. Madeira, A.I.F. Vaz, and L.N. Vicente. "Direct Multisearch for Multiobjective Optimization". SIAM Journal on Optimization, 21(3):1109–1140, 2011. doi: 10.1137/10079731X.

    Keywords: DMS algorithm, multi-objective optimization, derivative-free optimization, direct search methods, Pareto front, Decision Sciences

  42. J.F. Aguilar Madeira, H.L. Pina, E.B. Pires, and J. Monteiro. "Surgical correction of scoliosis: Numerical analysis and optimization of the procedure". International Journal for Numerical Methods in Biomedical Engineering, 26(9):1087–1098, 2010. doi: 10.1002/cnm.1380.

    Keywords: biomedical optimization, scoliosis correction, surgical planning, numerical analysis, Decision Sciences

  43. J.F.A. Madeira, H.L. Pina, and H.C. Rodrigues. "GA topology optimization using random keys for tree encoding of structures". Structural and Multidisciplinary Optimization, 40(1-6):227–240, 2010. doi: 10.1007/s00158-008-0353-1.

    Keywords: genetic algorithms, topology optimization, random keys encoding, structural design

  44. J.A. Madeira, H.C. Rodrigues, and H. Pina. "Multiobjective topology optimization of structures using genetic algorithms with chromosome repairing". Structural and Multidisciplinary Optimization, 32(1):31–39, 2006. doi: 10.1007/s00158-006-0007-0.

    Keywords: multi-objective topology optimization, genetic algorithms, chromosome repairing, structural design

  45. J.F.A. Madeira, H. Rodrigues, and H. Pina. "Multi-objective optimization of structures topology by genetic algorithms". Advances in Engineering Software, 36(1):21–28, 2005. doi: 10.1016/j.advengsoft.2003.07.001.

    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, topology optimization, genetic algorithms, structural design

Conference Proceedings & Editorials

  1. B. Kiss, J.D. Silvestre, J.F.A. Madeira, R.A. Santos, and Zs. Szalay. "Environmental and economic optimisation of buildings for different climates". IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 588:032033, 2020. doi: 10.1088/1755-1315/588/3/032033.

    Keywords: building optimization, environmental Decision Sciences, multi-objective design, sustainability

  2. J.F.A. Madeira. "Optimal Cruciform Specimen Design Using the Direct Multi-search Method and Design Variable Influence Study". Procedia Structural Integrity, 5:659–666, 2017. doi: 10.1016/j.prostr.2017.07.037.

    Keywords: DMS algorithm, specimen design, design variable analysis, structural optimization

  3. D. Camotim, C. Basaglia, J.F. Aguilar Madeira, H. Pina, S. Ilanko, D. Kennedy, T. Rabczuk, et al. "Editorial". Computers and Structures, 147:1–3, 2015. doi: 10.1016/j.compstruc.2014.11.005.

    Keywords: editorial, structural optimization, computational mechanics

  4. A.L. Custódio, M. Emmerich, and J.F.A. Madeira. "Recent Developments in Derivative-Free Multiobjective Optimisation". Computational Technology Reviews, 5:1–30, 2012. doi: 10.4203/ctr.5.1.

    Keywords: derivative-free optimization, multi-objective optimization, survey, direct search methods, Decision Sciences

  5. M. Leite, J.F.A. Madeira, A. Silva, E. Henriques, and R. Roth. "Optimization of Materials Selection in a Multi-Part Environment with Direct Multi-Search". Civil-Comp Proceedings, 99, 2012.

    Keywords: DMS algorithm, materials selection, multi-part optimization, Decision Sciences

  6. J.F. Aguilar Madeira, A.L. Araujo, C.M. Mota Soares, and C.A. Mota Soares. "Damping optimization of viscoelastic laminated sandwich structures using the direct multisearch method". Civil-Comp Proceedings, 99, 2012.

    Keywords: DMS algorithm, damping optimization, viscoelastic structures, sandwich panels

  7. H.L. Pina and J.F.A. Madeira. "Handling Linear Constraints in Genetic Algorithms". Civil-Comp Proceedings, 99, 2012. doi: 10.4203/CCP.99.59.

    Keywords: genetic algorithms, constrained optimization, linear constraints, metaheuristics

  8. J.F. Aguilar Madeira, H.L. Pina, and H.C. Rodrigues. "Plate eigenfrequency optimization with genetic algorithms and random keys". Civil-Comp Proceedings, 88, 2008. doi: 10.4203/CCP.88.73.

    Keywords: eigenfrequency optimization, genetic algorithms, random keys, structural dynamics

  9. J.F. Aguilar Madeira, H. Rodrigues, and H. Pina. "Genetic methods in multi-objective optimization of structures with an equality constraint on volume". Lecture Notes in Computer Science, 2632:767–781, 2003. doi: 10.1007/3-540-36970-8_54.

    Keywords: genetic algorithms, multi-objective optimization, volume-constrained structural design