A unified race algorithm for offline parameter tuning

This paper proposes uRace, a unified race algorithm for efficient offline parameter tuning of deterministic algorithms. We build on the similarity between a stochastic simulation environment and offline tuning of deterministic algorithms, where the stochastic element in the latter is the unknown problem instance given to the algorithm. Inspired by techniques from the simulation optimization literature, uRace enforces fair comparisons among parameter configurations by evaluating their performance on the same training instances. It relies on rapid statistical elimination of inferior parameter configurations and an increasingly localized search of the parameter space to quickly identify good parameter settings. We empirically evaluate uRace by applying it to a parameterized algorithmic framework for loading problems at ORTEC, a global provider of software solutions for complex decision-making problems, and obtain competitive results on a set of practical problem instances from one of the world's largest multinationals in consumer packaged goods

Mathematical models for multicontainer loading problems

This paper deals with the problem of a distribution company that has to serve its customers by putting first the products on pallets and then loading the pallets onto trucks. We approach the problem by developing and solving integer linear models. We start with basic models, that include the essential features of the problem, such as respecting the dimensions of the truck, and not exceeding the total weight capacity and the maximum weigh capacity on each axle. Then, we add progressively new conditions to consider the weight and volume of pallet bases and to include other desirable features for the solutions to be useful in practice, such as the position of the center of gravity and the minimization of the number of pallets.The models have been tested on a large set of real instances involving up to 46 trucks and kindly provided to us by a distribution company. The results show that in most cases the optimal solution can be obtained in small running times. Moreover, when optimality cannot be proven, the gap is very small, so we obtain high quality solutions for all the instances that we tested

Shipping Configuration Optimization with Topology-Based Guided Local Search for Irregular Shaped Shipments

Manufacturer that uses containers to ship products always works to optimize the space inside the containers. Container loading problems (CLP) are widely encountered in forms of raw material flow and handling, product shipments, warehouse management, facility floor planning, as well as strip-packing nesting problems.Investigations and research conducted two decades ago were logistic orientated, on the basis of the empirical approaches

Modelling and Optimisation of Space Allocation and layout Problems

This thesis investigates the development of optimisation-based, decision-making frameworks for allocation problems related to manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, and retailing. Since associated costs with these areas constitute significant parts to the overall supply chain cost, mathematical models of enhanced fidelity are required to obtain optimal decisions for i) pallet loading, ii) assortment, and iii) product shelf space, which will be the main research focus of this thesis. For the Manufactures Pallet loading problems (MPLP), novel single- and multi-objective Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) models have been proposed, which generate optimal layouts of improved 2D structure based on a block representation. The approach uses a Complexity Index metric, which aids in comparing 2 pallet layouts that share the same pallet size and number of boxes loaded but with different box arrangements. The proposed algorithm has been tested against available data-sets in literature. In the area of Assortments (optimal 2D packing within given containers) , an iterative MILP algorithm has been developed to provide a diverse set of solutions within pre-specified range of key performance metrics. In addition, a basic software prototype, based on AIMMS platform, has been developed using a user-friendly interface so as to facilitate user interaction with a visual display of the solutions obtained. In Shelf- Space Allocation (SSAP) problem, the relationship between the demand and the retailer shelf space allocated to each item is defined as space elasticity. Most of existing literature considers the problem with stationary demand and fixed space elasticities. In this part of the thesis, a dynamic framework has been proposed to forecast space elasticities based on historical data using standard time-series methodologies. In addition, an optimisation mathematical model has been implemented using the forecasted space elasticities to provide the retailer with optimal shelf space thus resulting into closer match between supply and demand and increased profitability. The applicability and effectiveness of the proposed framework is demonstrated through a number of tests and comparisons against literature data-sets

The Use of RFID Technologies for E-Enabling Logistics Supply Chains

"This book explores the creation of integrated supply chains, the developments of virtual business, and the processes of re-engineering for business development"--Provided by publisher

Supplier development practice: arising the problems of upstream delivery for a food distribution SME in the UK

The paper aims to emphasize on the impacts of the supplier development on reducing the defects in supplier quality for a food distribution small–medium sized enterprise (SME). An empirical study was conducted to measure the performance of the suppliers in three different key performance indicators of the outsourcing and supplier’s performance to arise the existing problems via information exchange, data collection and data analysis. It was found that supplier development through data and information exchange and better communication by any food distribution SME raises the problems more promptly. This can dramatically change the supplier’s behavior to improve the quality of the supplier’s service and products. It is suggested that more research is required to raise other key performance indicators and their related problems and to develop more improvement practices. Six sigma methodologies could be the potential good practices to be focused in future research studies. Supplier performance measurement, which encompasses data exchange and data collection, develops the systematic flow of information, which potentially improves the flow of goods and the whole food supply chain to address the final consumer satisfaction. The research took a novel approach in adopting some transport related key performance indicators of the food supply to the food distribution and retailing sector, which is almost a new approach in food industry

A literature review on the Pallet Loading Problem Una revisión literaria del Problema de Carga del Pallet

Actualmente, las empresas enfrentan una competencia agresiva, por lo que implementar estrategias para alcanzar la competitividad es elemental. En este sentido, en Logística, el uso adecuado de los recursos es imprescindible. El impacto en la ganancia que tienen el almacenaje y el transporte, conlleva la implementación de acciones para contrarrestarlo. Un paletizado efectivo puede contribuir a reducir costos. El Problema de Carga del Pallet (PLP) procura la optimización del espacio del pallet para lograr cargar máxima de producto debidamente empacado. El uso práctico y beneficios del PLP han dado pie a su estudio en la búsqueda su solución. Este artículo presenta una revisión literaria de 30 estudios para mostrar las características principales y los métodos de solución propuestos para proveer la base teórica y las maneras como se ha tratado el PLP. Con el entendimiento de estas propuestas de solución, se busca tener el sustento para elaborar un modelo nuevo.Nowadays, businesses face a fierce competition. Hence, the search for strategies to achieve competitiveness is elemental. For that purpose, in Logistics, the proper use of resources is a must. Storing and transportation cause impact the overall profit, making it necessary to take actions to lower their effect. An efficient palletizing can contribute to reduce costs. The Pallet Loading Problem (PLP) focuses on finding space optimization to load the maximum quantity of packed product onto the pallet. The PLP’s practical use and benefits have made it subject of study throughout time. This article presents a literature review of 30 approaches to show the main characteristics and the solution methods researchers have proposed. The objective of this revision consists of providing the theoretical basis and the way the PLP has been treated. Thus, the understanding of these solution approaches can help in the development of a new proposed model

Internal report cluster 1: Urban freight innovations and solutions for sustainable deliveries (1/4)

Technical report about sustainable urban freight solutions, part 1 of