Chemical industry supply chain optimisation using agent-based modelling

In this paper we present an application of Supply Chain Spread Sheet Simulator (SCSS) in a task dealing with chemical industry supply chain redesign and optimisation. SCSS uses principles of Agent-Based Modelling combining 4 types of agents with 3 algorithms to control their behaviour. Location Algorithm is used to place the logistics objects satisfying the demand of customers, Clarke&Wright's Savings Algorithm is applied to plan the routes and Past Stock Movement Simulation is used to control the stock levels. SCSS is developed in MS Excel using programming language Visual Basic for Applications. Its basic functionality is discussed simulating a real task dealing with the redesign of the distribution system for goods coming from chemical industry in the Czech Republic. We test 6 different structures of the distribution system differing in number of located logistics objects ranging from 1 to 6. Based on the outputs of SCSS recalculated to distribution costs we suggest decreasing the number of located warehouses from 6 to 1 estimating almost 33 % distribution costs savings per year

Linking Farmers to Markets Through Cooperatives Vegetables Supply Chain Redesign Options for Kapatagan, Mindanao, Philippines

The paper looks into the temperate vegetable industry in Kapatagan, an upland community in Mindanao, the Southern part of the Philippines. The intention in general is to identify ways by which smallholder vegetable producers are appropriately linked to markets through cooperatives with the end in view of increasing farmers’ income. Specifically the paper documented existing vegetable supply chains in Kapatagan as well as other relevant chains, assessed the various chains’ gaps and potentials in view of changing concepts and market requirements with supply chain and agro-industrial concepts as bases and identified entry points for chain enhancements.Farm Management, Production Economics,

Lean Thinking: Theory, Application and Dissemination

This book was written and compiled by the University of Huddersfield to share the learnings and experiences of seven years of Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) and Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) funded projects with the National Health Service (NHS). The focus of these projects was the implementation of Lean thinking and optimising strategic decision making processes. Each of these projects led to major local improvements and this book explains how they were achieved and compiles the lessons learnt. The book is split into three chapters; Lean Thinking Theory, Lean Thinking Applied and Lean Thinking Dissemination

A dynamic systems engineering methodology research study. Phase 2: Evaluating methodologies, tools, and techniques for applicability to NASA's systems projects

A study of NASA's Systems Management Policy (SMP) concluded that the primary methodology being used by the Mission Operations and Data Systems Directorate and its subordinate, the Networks Division, is very effective. Still some unmet needs were identified. This study involved evaluating methodologies, tools, and techniques with the potential for resolving the previously identified deficiencies. Six preselected methodologies being used by other organizations with similar development problems were studied. The study revealed a wide range of significant differences in structure. Each system had some strengths but none will satisfy all of the needs of the Networks Division. Areas for improvement of the methodology being used by the Networks Division are listed with recommendations for specific action

Characteristics of developed flexible polyurethane foams reinforced with coconut coir fibres and recycled tyres

Flexible Polyurethane (PU) foam is generally used in seat cushions of automotive seating for comfort and supporting the occupants. However, due to the demand for more comfortable compartment; seat cushions are now designed for better riding comfort and acoustic absorption which linked to the damping of foam. Incorporated treated coir fibres (F) and tyre particles (P) into polymeric material had improved the damping and strength of the material. In this research, flexible PU foams were reinforced with two fillers for the purpose of higher damping property and improve the mechanical strength. Five samples with 2.5wt% of filler loading were developed. The damping of samples was measured on sound absorption and vibration transmissibility test that generated at 1mm, 1.5mm, 0.1g, and 0.15g base excitation while their mechanical properties were examined through compression, tear resistance, and compression set. The morphology of samples was also observed by SEM in this research. The results showed that the foam composites produced have smaller cell size, in which the smallest was 840µm compared to 1290µm obtained in pure PU foam. The mechanical properties revealed that the strength of flexible PU foam increased with added treated coir fibres and recycled tyres. The best properties were shown in PU+2.5wt%(50F50P) which increased by 10.78% on the compressive modulus, 9.33% on the compressive strength, 14.49% on the static energy absorption, and 3.76% on the tear strength compared to pure PU foam. The sound absorption and vibration damping of the developed foams showed that more energy were absorbed and dissipated by these foams after fillers added. The PU+2.5wt%(80P20F) and PU+2.5wt%F presented an excellent sound absorption characteristics at 20mm and 40mm thickness, respectively, whereas PU+2.5wt%P, PU+2.5wt%(80P20F), and PU+2.5wt%(80F20P) showed higher vibration damping from the transmissibility test