11 research outputs found
Algorithm Engineering in Robust Optimization
Robust optimization is a young and emerging field of research having received
a considerable increase of interest over the last decade. In this paper, we
argue that the the algorithm engineering methodology fits very well to the
field of robust optimization and yields a rewarding new perspective on both the
current state of research and open research directions.
To this end we go through the algorithm engineering cycle of design and
analysis of concepts, development and implementation of algorithms, and
theoretical and experimental evaluation. We show that many ideas of algorithm
engineering have already been applied in publications on robust optimization.
Most work on robust optimization is devoted to analysis of the concepts and the
development of algorithms, some papers deal with the evaluation of a particular
concept in case studies, and work on comparison of concepts just starts. What
is still a drawback in many papers on robustness is the missing link to include
the results of the experiments again in the design
Minmax regret combinatorial optimization problems: an Algorithmic Perspective
Candia-Vejar, A (reprint author), Univ Talca, Modeling & Ind Management Dept, Curico, Chile.Uncertainty in optimization is not a new ingredient. Diverse models considering uncertainty have been developed over the last 40 years. In our paper we essentially discuss a particular uncertainty model associated with combinatorial optimization problems, developed in the 90's and broadly studied in the past years. This approach named minmax regret (in particular our emphasis is on the robust deviation criteria) is different from the classical approach for handling uncertainty, stochastic approach, where uncertainty is modeled by assumed probability distributions over the space of all possible scenarios and the objective is to find a solution with good probabilistic performance. In the minmax regret (MMR) approach, the set of all possible scenarios is described deterministically, and the search is for a solution that performs reasonably well for all scenarios, i.e., that has the best worst-case performance. In this paper we discuss the computational complexity of some classic combinatorial optimization problems using MMR. approach, analyze the design of several algorithms for these problems, suggest the study of some specific research problems in this attractive area, and also discuss some applications using this model
Pilot3 D2.1 - Trade-off report on multi criteria decision making techniques
This deliverable describes the decision making approach that will be followed in Pilot3.
It presents a domain-driven analysis of the characteristics of Pilot3 objective function and optimisation framework. This has been done considering inputs from deliverable D1.1 - Technical Resources and Problem definition, from interaction with the Topic Manager, but most importantly from a dedicated Advisory Board workshop and follow-up consultation. The Advisory Board is formed by relevant stakeholders including airlines, flight operation experts, pilots, and other relevant ATM experts.
A review of the different multi-criteria decision making techniques available in the literature is presented. Considering the domain-driven characteristics of Pilot3 and inputs on how the tool could be used by airlines and crew. Then, the most suitable methods for multi-criteria optimisation are selected for each of the phases of the optimisation framework
Ordered Weighted Average optimization in Multiobjective Spanning Tree Problem
Rework adversely impacts the performance of building projects. In this study, data were analyzed from 788 construction incidents in 40 Spanish building projects to determine the effects of project and managerial characteristics on rework costs. Finally, regression analysis was used to understand the relationships among contributing factors and to develop a model for rework prediction. Interestingly, the rework prediction model showed that only the original contract value (OCV) and the project location in relation to the company’s headquarters contributed to the regression model. Project type, type of organization, type of contract, and original contract duration (OCD), which represents the magnitude and complexity of a project, were represented by the OCV. This model for rework prediction based on original project conditions enables strategies to be put in place prior to the start of construction, to minimize uncertainties, to reduce impacts on project cost and schedule, and, thus, to improve productivity.Peer ReviewedPostprint (author's final draft
Contributions to robust and bilevel optimization models for decision-making
Los problemas de optimización combinatorios han sido ampliamente estudiados en la
literatura especializada desde mediados del siglo pasado. No obstante, en las últimas
décadas ha habido un cambio de paradigma en el tratamiento de problemas cada vez
más realistas, en los que se incluyen fuentes de aleatoriedad e incertidumbre en los
datos, múltiples criterios de optimización y múltiples niveles de decisión. Esta tesis
se desarrolla en este contexto. El objetivo principal de la misma es el de construir
modelos de optimización que incorporen aspectos inciertos en los parámetros que
de nen el problema así como el desarrollo de modelos que incluyan múltiples niveles
de decisión. Para dar respuesta a problemas con incertidumbre usaremos los modelos
Minmax Regret de Optimización Robusta, mientras que las situaciones con múltiples
decisiones secuenciales serán analizadas usando Optimización Binivel.
En los Capítulos 2, 3 y 4 se estudian diferentes problemas de decisión bajo incertidumbre
a los que se dará una solución robusta que proteja al decisor minimizando
el máximo regret en el que puede incurrir. El criterio minmax regret analiza el comportamiento
del modelo bajo distintos escenarios posibles, comparando su e ciencia
con la e ciencia óptima bajo cada escenario factible. El resultado es una solución con
una eviciencia lo más próxima posible a la óptima en el conjunto de las posibles realizaciones
de los parámetros desconocidos. En el Capítulo 2 se estudia un problema de
diseño de redes en el que los costes, los pares proveedor-cliente y las demandas pueden
ser inciertos, y además se utilizan poliedros para modelar la incertidumbre, permitiendo
de este modo relaciones de dependencia entre los parámetros. En el Capítulo
3 se proponen, en el contexto de la secuenciación de tareas o la computación grid,
versiones del problema del camino más corto y del problema del viajante de comercio
en el que el coste de recorrer un arco depende de la posición que este ocupa en el
camino, y además algunos de los parámetros que de nen esta función de costes son
inciertos. La combinación de la dependencia en los costes y la incertidumbre en los
parámetros da lugar a dependencias entre los parámetros desconocidos, que obliga a
modelar los posibles escenarios usando conjuntos más generales que los hipercubos,
habitualmente utilizados en este contexto. En este capítulo, usaremos poliedros generales
para este cometido. Para analizar este primer bloque de aplicaciones, en el Capítulo 4, se analiza un modelo de optimización en el que el conjunto de posibles
escenarios puede ser alterado mediante la realización de inversiones en el sistema.
En los problemas estudiados en este primer bloque, cada decisión factible es evaluada
en base a la reacción más desfavorable que pueda darse en el sistema. En los
Capítulos 5 y 6 seguiremos usando esta idea pero ahora se supondrá que esa reacción
a la decisión factible inicial está en manos de un adversario o follower. Estos dos
capítulos se centran en el estudio de diferentes modelos binivel. La Optimización
Binivel aborda problemas en los que existen dos niveles de decisión, con diferentes
decisores en cada uno ellos y la decisión se toma de manera jerárquica. En concreto,
en el Capítulo 5 se estudian distintos modelos de jación de precios en el contexto
de selección de carteras de valores, en los que el intermediario nanciero, que se
convierte en decisor, debe jar los costes de invertir en determinados activos y el
inversor debe seleccionar su cartera de acuerdo a distintos criterios. Finalmente, en
el Capítulo 6 se estudia un problema de localización en el que hay distintos decisores,
con intereses contrapuestos, que deben determinar secuencialmente la ubicación de
distintas localizaciones. Este modelo de localización binivel se puede aplicar en contextos
como la localización de servicios no deseados o peligrosos (plantas de reciclaje,
centrales térmicas, etcétera) o en problemas de ataque-defensa.
Todos estos modelos se abordan mediante el uso de técnicas de Programación
Matemática. De cada uno de ellos se analizan algunas de sus propiedades y se desarrollan
formulaciones y algoritmos, que son examinados también desde el punto de
vista computacional. Además, se justica la validez de los modelos desde un enfoque
de las aplicaciones prácticas. Los modelos presentados en esta tesis comparten la
peculiaridad de requerir resolver distintos problemas de optimización encajados.Combinatorial optimization problems have been extensively studied in the specialized
literature since the mid-twentieth century. However, in recent decades, there
has been a paradigm shift to the treatment of ever more realistic problems, which
include sources of randomness and uncertainty in the data, multiple optimization
criteria and multiple levels of decision. This thesis concerns the development of such
concepts. Our objective is to study optimization models that incorporate uncertainty
elements in the parameters de ning the model, as well as the development of
optimization models integrating multiple decision levels. In order to consider problems
under uncertainty, we use Minmax Regret models from Robust Optimization;
whereas the multiplicity and hierarchy in the decision levels is addressed using Bilevel
Optimization.
In Chapters 2, 3 and 4, we study di erent decision problems under uncertainty
to which we give a robust solution that protects the decision-maker minimizing the
maximum regret that may occur. This robust criterion analyzes the performance
of the system under multiple possible scenarios, comparing its e ciency with the
optimum one under each feasible scenario. We obtain, as a result, a solution whose
e ciency is as close as possible to the optimal one in the set of feasible realizations
of the uncertain parameters. In Chapter 2, we study a network design problem in
which the costs, the pairs supplier-customer, and the demands can take uncertain
values. Furthermore, the uncertainty in the parameters is modeled via polyhedral
sets, thereby allowing relationships among the uncertain parameters. In Chapter
3, we propose time-dependent versions of the shortest path and traveling salesman
problems in which the costs of traversing an arc depends on the relative position
that the arc occupies in the path. Moreover, we assume that some of the parameters
de ning these costs can be uncertain. These models can be applied in the context of
task sequencing or grid computing. The incorporation of time-dependencies together
with uncertainties in the parameters gives rise to dependencies among the uncertain
parameters, which require modeling the possible scenarios using more general sets
than hypercubes, normally used in this context. In this chapter, we use general
polyhedral sets with this purpose. To nalize this rst block of applications, in Chapter 4, we analyze an optimization model in which the set of possible scenarios
can be modi ed by making some investments in the system.
In the problems studied in this rst block, each feasible decision is evaluated
based on the most unfavorable possible reaction of the system. In Chapters 5 and
6, we will still follow this idea, but assuming that the reaction to the initial feasible
decision will be held by a follower or an adversary, instead of assuming the most
unfavorable one. These two chapters are focused on the study of some bilevel models.
Bilevel Optimization addresses optimization problems with multiple decision
levels, di erent decision-makers in each level and a hierarchical decision order. In
particular, in Chapter 5, we study some price setting problems in the context of
portfolio selection. In these problems, the nancial intermediary becomes a decisionmaker
and sets the transaction costs for investing in some securities, and the investor
chooses her portfolio according to di erent criteria. Finally, in Chapter 6, we study
a location problem with several decision-makers and opposite interests, that must
set, sequentially, some location points. This bilevel location model can be applied
in practical applications such as the location of semi-obnoxious facilities (power or
electricity plants, waste dumps, etc.) or interdiction problems.
All these models are stated from a Mathematical Programming perspective, analyzing
their properties and developing formulations and algorithms, that are tested
from a computational point of view. Furthermore, we pay special attention to justifying
the validity of the models from the practical applications point of view. The
models presented in this thesis share the characteristic of involving the resolution of
nested optimization problems.Premio Extraordinario de Doctorado U
Mathematical models for the design and planning of transportation on demand in urban logistics networks
Falta palabras claveThe freight-transport industry has made enormous progress in the development and application of logistics techniques that has transformed its operation, giving raise to impressive productivity gains and improved responsiveness to its consumers. While the separation of passenger and freight traffic is a relatively new concept in historic terms, recent approaches point out that most freight-logistics techniques are transferable to the passenger-transport industry. In this sense, passenger logistics can be understood as the application of logistics techniques in urban contexts to the passenger-transport
industry. The design of an urban logistic network integrates decisions about the emplacement, number and capacities of the facilities that will be located, the flows between them, demand patterns and cost structures that will validate the profitability of the process. This strategic decision settles conditions and constraints of latter tactical and operative decisions. In addition, different criteria are involved during the whole process so, in general terms, it is essential an exhaustive analysis, from the mathematical point of view, of the decision problem. The optimization models resulting from this analysis require techniques and mathematical algorithms in constant development and evolution. Such methods demand more and more a higher number of interrelated elements due to the increase of scale used in the current logistics and transportation problems.
This PhD dissertation explores different topics related to Mathematical models for the design and planning of transportation on demand in urban logistics networks. The contributions are divided into six main chapters since and, in addition, Chapter 0 offers a basic background for the contents that are presented in the remaining six chapters.
Chapter 1 deals with the Transit Network Timetabling and Scheduling Problem (TNTSP) in a public transit line. The TNTSP aims at determining optimal timetables for each line in a transit network by establishing departure and arrival times of each vehicle at each station. We assume that customers know departure times of line runs offered by the system. However, each user, traveling later of before their desired travel time, will give rise to an inconvenience cost, or a penalty cost if that user cannot
be served according to the scheduled timetable. The provided formulation allocates each user to the best possible timetable considering capacity constraints. The problem is formulated using a p-median based approach and solved using a clustering technique. Computational results that show useful applications of this methodology are also included.
Chapter 2 deals with the TNTSP in a public transit network integrating in the model the passengers' routings. The current models for planning timetables and vehicle schedules use the knowledge of passengers' routings from the results of a previous phase. However, the actual route a passenger will take strongly depends on the timetable, which is not yet known a priori. The provided formulation guarantees that each user is allocated to the best possible timetable ensuring capacity constraints.
Chapter 3 deals with the rescheduling problem in a transit line that has suffered a eet size reduction. We present different modelling possibilities depending on the assumptions that need to be included in the modelization and we show that the problem can be solved rapidly by using a constrained maxcost- ow problem whose coe_cient matrix we prove is totally unimodular. We test our results in a testbed of random instances outperforming previous results in the literature. An experimental study, based on a line segment of the Madrid Regional Railway network, shows that the proposed approach provides optimal reassignment decisions within computation times compatible with real-time use.
In Chapter 4 we discuss the multi-criteria p-facility median location problem on networks with positive and negative weights. We assume that the demand is located at the nodes and can be different for each criterion under consideration. The goal is to obtain the set of Pareto-optimal locations in the graph and the corresponding set of non-dominated objective values. To that end, we first characterize the linearity domains of the distance functions on the graph and compute the image of each linearity
domain in the objective space. The lower envelope of a transformation of all these images then gives us the set of all non-dominated points in the objective space and its preimage corresponds to the set of all Pareto-optimal solutions on the graph. For the bicriteria 2-facility case we present a low order polynomial time algorithm. Also for the general case we propose an efficient algorithm, which is polynomial if the number of facilities and criteria is fixed.
In Chapter 5, Ordered Weighted Average optimization problems are studied from a modeling point of view. Alternative integer programming formulations for such problems are presented and their respective domains studied and compared. In addition, their associated polyhedra are studied and some families of facets and new families of valid inequalities presented. The proposed formulations are particularized for two well-known combinatorial optimization problems, namely, shortest path and minimum cost perfect matching, and the results of computational experiments presented and analyzed. These results indicate that the new formulations reinforced with appropriate constraints can be effective for efficiently solving medium to large size instances.
In Chapter 6, the multiobjective Minimum cost Spanning Tree Problem (MST) is studied from a modeling point of view. In particular, we use the ordered median objective function as an averaging operator to aggregate the vector of objective values of feasible solutions. This leads to the Ordered Weighted Average Spanning Tree Problem (OWASTP), which we study in this work. To solve the problem, we propose different integer programming formulations based in the most relevant MST
formulations and in a new one. We analyze several enhancements for these formulations and we test their performance over a testbed of random instances. Finally we show that an appropriate choice will allow us to solve larger instances with more objectives than those previously solved in the literature.Premio Extraordinario de Doctorado U
Minimax regret spanning arborescences under uncertain costs
Candia, A. Department of Computer Science, Universidad de Talca, Merced 437, Curicó, Chile.The paper considers a classical optimization problem on a network whose arc costs are partially known. It is assumed that an interval estimate is given for each arc cost and no further information about the statistical distribution of the truth value of the arc cost is known. In this context, given a spanning arborescence in the network, its cost can take on different values according to the choice of each individual arc cost, that is, according to the different cost scenarios.
We analyze the problem of finding which spanning arborescence better approaches the optimal one under each possible scenario. The minimax regret criterion is proposed in order to obtain such a robust solution to the problem.
In the paper, it is shown that a greedy-type algorithm can compute an optimal solution of this problem on acyclic networks. For general networks, the problem becomes -hard. In this case, the special structure of the optimization problem allows us to design a bounding process for the optimum value that will result in a heuristic algorithm described at the end of the paper