Selection of the level and corresponding criteria is first and the most important decision in the formulation of the optimization task. Initial conditions expressed mainly by breadth and depth of the optimization is crucial for good final results. The goal of the article is to analyze the optimization possibilities and limitations on contemporary technologies for processing deep-sea nodules and to show some new views and approaches for defining, formulation, and solutions of the problem. For successful optimization in more general levels of innovation it is very important to incorporate into the model not only technical technology parameters (usually expressed in measurable quantities) but also adequate system of economic evaluation (postulations, assumptions, prerequisites, conditions, criteria) and decisive market aspects including distribution chain for products. It is emphasized the requirement to improve design and evaluation within models using modern computer simulation techniques already in the first optimization steps.
The aim of the work is not give any precise methods for specific optimization tasks but from methodological point of view give some new ideas in formulation and solving of the optimization tasks within field of processing polymetallic nodules. The views presented in this paper are those of the author and do not necessarily ret1ect the position of the Interoceanmetal Joint Organization. The information about economic evaluation of the industrial mining, processing and utilization of the deep sea polymetallic nodules (PMN) reveals that the contemporary projects are not enough attractive to the investors for intensive continuation development industrial exploitation nodules (Lenoble, 2000). The start industrial exploitation is postponed on future referring to the change of economic conditions and metals prices. We are convinced that it is necessary to undergo PMN exploitation problem to critical analysis using modern cybernetic method from widened economic position.
