Constrained Optimization Methods for the Sensitivity Function

We consider a parametric family of convex programs, where the parameter is the vector of the right-hand sides in the functional constraints of the problem. Each vector value of the parameter taken from the nonnegative orthant corresponds to a regular (Slater’s condition) convex program and the minimum value of its objective function. This value depends on the constraint parameter and generates the sensitivity function. We consider the problem of minimizing the implicit sensitivity function on a convex set given geometrically or functionally. This problem can be interpreted as a convex program in which, instead of a given vector of the right-hand sides of functional constraints, only a set to which this vector belongs is specified. As a result, we obtain a two-level problem. In contrast to the classical two-level hierarchical problems with implicitly given constraints, it is objective functions that are given implicitly in our case. There is no hierarchy in this problem. As a rule, sensitivity functions are discussed in the literature in a more general context as functions of the optimum. The author does not know optimization statements of these problems as independent studies or, even more so, solution methods for them. A new saddle approach to the solution of problems with sensitivity functions is proposed. The monotone convergence of the method is proved with respect to the variables of the space in which the problem is considered.