Optimization

This chapter introduces a theoretical framework, Optimal Control Theory, which will enable a phonology-extrinsic-timing-based, three-component model to determine values of controlled variables, and to model the influence of multiple factors on these parameter values. Key features of Optimal Control Theory models are discussed, as well as evidence for types of movement costs (including the cost of time) used in the models, and predictions of the models for the coordination of multiple effectors and hierarchical control. Finally, the chapter reviews Optimal Control Theory models currently used to account for timing phenomena in speech.