ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Mathematical programming with equilibrium constraints

Ok, kiddo. So, imagine a big puzzle. It's so big that there are lots of little pieces that need to fit together just right. Well, that's kind of what mathematical programming with equilibrium constraints is like.

Here's the deal - in this kind of math, we're trying to figure out the best way to do something, but there are rules or restrictions that we have to follow. These restrictions are kind of like the edges of our puzzle - we can't just put any piece anywhere we want, it has to fit into the right place.

The other thing that makes this kind of math puzzle so tricky is that there are different people or groups involved, and they all have different goals or ideas about what should happen. It's kind of like trying to plan a big project with a bunch of different friends - everybody has their own ideas and wants things to go their way.

So, how do we solve this kind of puzzle? Well, we have to use something called equilibrium constraints. This means that we look at all the different pieces of the puzzle and figure out where they fit together in a way that satisfies everyone's goals or desires. It's like finding a middle ground where everyone is happy.

Sometimes, though, it's really hard to find that middle ground. It might seem like there's just no way to make everybody happy. That's where the math comes in - we use equations and formulas to help us find the best possible solution. It's like using a cheat sheet to help us put the puzzle together.

So, there you have it, kiddo - mathematical programming with equilibrium constraints is like putting a big, complicated puzzle together with lots of different rules and people involved. But with some math and a little bit of compromise, we can figure out the best way to do things for everyone.