Strong chip, normality, and linear regularity of convex sets

We extend the property (N) introduced by Jameson for closed convex cones to the normal property for a finite collection of convex sets in a Hilbert space. Variations of the normal property, such as the weak normal property and the uniform normal property, are also introduced. A dual form of the normal property is derived. When applied to closed convex cones, the dual normal property is the property ( G) introduced by Jameson. Normality of convex sets provides a new perspective on the relationship between the strong conical hull intersection property ( strong CHIP) and various regularity properties. In particular, we prove that the weak normal property is a dual characterization of the strong CHIP, and the uniform normal property is a characterization of the linear regularity. Moreover, the linear regularity is equivalent to the fact that the normality constant for feasible direction cones of the convex sets at x is bounded away from 0 uniformly over all points in the intersection of these convex sets.