Abs

The abs function in ASCEND returns the absolute value of its argument. This function should be used with caution in models because, being a non-smooth function, it can damage the convergence of many of the Newton-based solver algorithms, such as QRSlv.

Useful tricks with abs

Using the abs function, it is possible to produce makeshift min and max behaviour using ASCEND relations. For example,

a,b IS_A factor;
min, max IS_A factor;

max = a + ((b-a) + abs(b-a))/2;

min = a + ((b-a) - abs(b-a))/2;

See also conditional modelling for more complex syntax for this kind of 'conditional' behaviour.