A design problem of cross-docking distribution networks is addressed as a new research area in logistics management. This paper presents a new mathematical model for the location of cross-docking facilities and vehicle routing scheduling problems in distribution networks. For this purpose, a two-phase mixed-integer programming (MIP) is formulated. Then, a new heuristic-based simulated annealing...

We propose a clustering heuristic based on circuit con-nectivity which produces a large number of small clusters of nearly equal size. We investigate a two phase partitioning heuristic. Cell interchanges are applied to a clustered circuit and subsequently to the original circuit. Numerical results demonstrate our two phase heuristic produces better partitions with less computational eeort than ...

We consider the dynamic task allocation problem in multicomputer system with multiprogramming. Programs are given as task interaction graphs that have to be mapped onto the processors at run-time. We propose a fast two-phase heuristic algorithm where phase 1 performs a hierarchic clustering of the tasks which is used by the second phase to map clusters of suitable size onto free partitions of t...

The capacitated vehicle routing problem is to find a routing schedule describing the order in which geographically dispersed customers are visited to satisfy demand by supplying goods stored at the depot, such that the traveling costs are minimized. In many practical applications, a long term routing schedule has to be made for operational purposes, often based on average demand estimates. When...

In this work, we introduce the multiscale production routing problem (MPRP), which considers the coordination of production, inventory, distribution, and routing decisions in multicommodity supply chains with complex production facilities. We propose an MILP model involving two different time grids. While a detailed mode-based production scheduling model captures all critical operational constr...

We study equilibrium droplets in two-phase systems at parameter values corresponding to phase coexistence. Specifically, we give a self-contained microscopic derivation of the Gibbs–Thomson formula for the deviation of the pressure and the density away from their equilibrium values which, according to the interpretation of the classical thermodynamics, appears due to the presence of a curved in...

We study the fuel procurement problem for electrical utilities under uncertain demand and market price. Long-term contractual supply commitments are made at a set price with fuel suppliers at the beginning of each year. Each month the procurement planner can use fuel from these contracts or purchase fuel at the current market price. We propose a two-phase heuristic to determine a procurement pl...