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Article
Publication date: 2 November 2015

W. Li, Y Wen and L X Li

The purpose of this paper is to improve the framework of classical collaborative optimization (CCO) so as to solve the multi-disciplinary optimization problems with parametric and…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to improve the framework of classical collaborative optimization (CCO) so as to solve the multi-disciplinary optimization problems with parametric and parameter-free variables, and therefore an improved collaborative optimization (ICO) is proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

To clarify the relation of design variables, the optimization problem is classified into three general case. For each case, the respective treatment is suggested for coupled or uncoupled variables in the framework of the ICO.

Findings

The decoupling treatment suggested in the ICO framework not only avoids the iteration divergence and thus optimization failure, but increases the optimal design space to some extent. The method is validated by optimizing an aircraft assembly and a high-speed train assembly.

Originality/value

The two practical examples proves that the present ICO succeeds in solving the problem that the CCO failed to, also gives the optimal results better than those from the sequential optimization method.

Article
Publication date: 29 April 2014

Alexandru C. Berbecea, Frédéric Gillon and Pascal Brochet

The purpose of this paper is to present an application of a multidisciplinary multi-level design optimization methodology for the optimal design of a complex device from the field…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an application of a multidisciplinary multi-level design optimization methodology for the optimal design of a complex device from the field of electrical engineering throughout discipline-based decomposition. The considered benchmark is a single-phase low voltage safety isolation transformer.

Design/methodology/approach

The multidisciplinary optimization of a safety isolation transformer is addressed within this paper. The bi-level collaborative optimization (CO) strategy is employed to coordinate the optimization of the different disciplinary analytical models of the transformer (no-load and full-load electromagnetic models and thermal model). The results represent the joint decision of the three distinct disciplinary optimizers involved in the design process, under the coordination of the CO's master optimizer. In order to validate the proposed approach, the results are compared to those obtained using a classical single-level optimization method – sequential quadratic programming – carried out using a multidisciplinary feasible formulation for handling the evaluation of the coupling model of the transformer.

Findings

Results show a good convergence of the CO process with the analytical modeling of the transformer, with a reduced number of coordination iterations. However, a relatively important number of disciplinary models evaluations were required by the local optimizers.

Originality/value

The CO multi-level methodology represents a new approach in the field of electrical engineering. The advantage of this approach consists in that it integrates decisions from different teams of specialists within the optimal design process of complex systems and all exchanges are managed within a unique coordination process.

Details

COMPEL: The International Journal for Computation and Mathematics in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, vol. 33 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0332-1649

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 April 2023

Qiang Du, Xiaomin Qi, Patrick X.W. Zou and Yanmin Zhang

The purpose of this paper is to develop a bi-objective optimization framework to select prefabricated construction service composition. An improved algorithm-genetic simulated…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a bi-objective optimization framework to select prefabricated construction service composition. An improved algorithm-genetic simulated annealing algorithm (GSA) is employed to demonstrate the application of the framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The weighted aggregate multi-dimensional collaborative relationship is used to quantitatively evaluate the synergistic effect. The quality of service is measured using the same method. The research proposed a service combination selection framework of prefabricated construction that comprehensively considers the quality of service and synergistic effect. The framework is demonstrated by using a GSA that can accept poor solutions with a certain probability. Furthermore, GSA is compared with the genetic algorithm (GA), simulated annealing algorithm (SA) and particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO) to validate the performance.

Findings

The results indicated that GSA has the largest optimal fitness value and synergistic effect compared with other algorithms, and the convergence time and convergence iteration of the improved algorithm are generally at a low level.

Originality/value

The contribution of this study is that the proposed framework enables project managers to clarify the interactions of the prefabricated construction process and provides guidance for project collaborative management. In addition, GSA helps to improve the probability of successful collaboration between potential partners, therefore enhancing client satisfaction.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 July 2014

Wim Lammen, Philipp Kupijai, Daniel Kickenweitz and Timo Laudan

– This paper aims to set up and assess a new method to collaboratively mature the requirements for engine development in a more efficient way during the preliminary design phase.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to set up and assess a new method to collaboratively mature the requirements for engine development in a more efficient way during the preliminary design phase.

Design/methodology/approach

A collaborative process has been set up in which detailed information on the behaviour of designed engines has been integrated into the aircraft preliminary sizing process by means of surrogate modelling.

Findings

The engine surrogate model has been invoked as a black box from within the aircraft preliminary design optimisation loops. The surrogate model reduces the uncertainty of coarse-grain formulas and may result in more competitive aircraft and engine designs. The surrogate model has been integrated in a collaborative cross-organisational workflow between aircraft manufacturer, engine manufacturer and simulation service providers to prepare for its deployment in industrial preliminary design processes.

Practical implications

The new collaborative way of working between aircraft manufacturer, engine manufacturer and simulation service providers could contribute to remove time consuming rework cycles in early and later design stages within delivering the optimal aircraft-engine combination.

Originality/value

The assessed process, based on an innovative collaboration standard, provides the opportunity to introduce useful design iterations with much more enriched information than in the classical design process as performed today. Specifically, the application of an engine surrogate model is advantageous, as it allows for extensive trade-off studies on aircraft level because of the low computational effort, while the intellectual property of the engine manufacturer (the engine preliminary design process) is respected and kept in-house.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology: An International Journal, vol. 86 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0002-2667

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 March 2017

Mengmeng Zhang and Arthur Rizzi

A collaborative design environment is needed for multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) process, based on all the modules those for different design/analysis disciplines, and…

387

Abstract

Purpose

A collaborative design environment is needed for multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) process, based on all the modules those for different design/analysis disciplines, and a systematic coupling should be made to carry out aerodynamic shape optimization (ASO), which is an important part of MDO.

Design/methodology/approach

Computerized environment for aircraft synthesis and integrated optimization methods (CEASIOM)-ASO is developed based on loosely coupling all the existing modules of CEASIOM by MATLAB scripts. The optimization problem is broken down into small sub-problems, which is called “sequential design approach”, allowing the engineer in the loop.

Findings

CEASIOM-ASO shows excellent design abilities on the test case of designing a blended wing body flying in transonic speed, with around 45 per cent drag reduction and all the constraints fulfilled.

Practical implications

Authors built a complete and systematic technique for aerodynamic wing shape optimization based on the existing computational design framework CEASIOM, from geometry parametrization, meshing to optimization.

Originality/value

CEASIOM-ASO provides an optimization technique with loosely coupled modules in CEASIOM design framework, allowing engineer in the loop to follow the “sequential approach” of the design, which is less “myopic” than sticking to gradient-based optimization for the whole process. Meanwhile, it is easily to be parallelized.

Details

Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, vol. 89 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1748-8842

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 October 2012

Dmitry Ivanov and Boris Sokolov

On modern markets, supply chains (SC) shape the competition landscape. At the same time, considerable research advancements have been recently achieved in the area of collaborative

1292

Abstract

Purpose

On modern markets, supply chains (SC) shape the competition landscape. At the same time, considerable research advancements have been recently achieved in the area of collaborative networks. Trends in information technology progress for networked systems include development of cyber‐physical networks, cloud service environments, etc. The purpose of this paper is to identify an inter‐disciplinary perspective and modelling tools for new generation SCs which will be collaborative cyber‐physical networks.

Design/methodology/approach

This study addresses the above‐mentioned research goal by first, developing a methodical vision of an inter‐disciplinary modelling framework for SCM based on the existing studies on SC operations, control and systems theories; and second, by integrating elements of different structures with structures dynamics within an adaptive framework based upon the authors' own research.

Findings

The inter‐disciplinary modelling framework for multi‐structural SCs has been developed. A new inter‐disciplinary level of model‐based decision‐making support in those SCs is claimed based on the integration of previously isolated problems and modelling tools developed in such disciplines like operations research, control theory, system dynamics, and artificial intelligence.

Originality/value

The novelty of this paper is the consideration of SC modelling in the context of collaborative cyber‐physical systems. This topic is particularly relevant for researchers and practitioners who are interested in future generation SCs. Particular focus is directed towards the multi‐structural SC modelling, structure dynamics, and inter‐disciplinary problems and models in future SCs. Challenges of integrated optimization in the organizational and informational context are discussed.

Article
Publication date: 20 January 2023

Vahid Ghomi, David Gligor, Sina Shokoohyar, Reza Alikhani and Farnaz Ghazi Nezami

Collaborative Logistics (CL) and merging operations are crucial strategies for reducing costs and improving service in transportation companies. This study proposes a model for…

Abstract

Purpose

Collaborative Logistics (CL) and merging operations are crucial strategies for reducing costs and improving service in transportation companies. This study proposes a model for optimizing efficiency in supply chain networks through inbound and outbound Collaborative Logistics implementation among the carriers in centralized, coordinated networks with cross-docking.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-integer non-linear programming model is developed to determine the optimal truck-goods assignment while gaining economies of scale through mixing multiple less-than-truckload (LTL) products with different weight-to-volume ratios. Unlike the previous studies that have considered Collaborative Logistics from the cost and profit-sharing perspective, the proposed model seeks to determine an appropriate form of Collaborative Logistics in the VRP.

Findings

This article shows that in a three-echelon supply chain consisting of a set of suppliers, a set of customers and a cross-docking terminal, partial collaboration among the inbound carriers and outbound carriers outperforms no/complete collaboration. This approach enhances the supply chain efficiency by minimizing the total transportation costs, the total transportation miles and the total number of trucks and maximizing fleet utilization. While addressing the four points, the role of collaborative logistics among the carriers was discussed. In a three-echelon SC consisting of a set of suppliers, a set of customers and a cross-docking terminal, partial collaboration among the inbound carriers and outbound carriers outperforms no/complete collaboration. Using a combination of experimental analysis and optimization process, it was recommended that managers be cautious that too much (full or complete) or no collaboration can result in SC performance deterioration.

Originality/value

The suggested approach enhances the supply chain efficiency by minimizing the total transportation costs, the total transportation miles and the total number of trucks and maximizing fleet utilization. While addressing the four points, the role of Collaborative Logistics among the carriers was discussed.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. 34 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 October 2023

Mengdi Zhang, Aoxiang Chen, Zhiheng Zhao and George Q. Huang

This research explores mitigating carbon emissions and integrating sustainability in e-commerce logistics by optimizing the multi-depot pollution routing problem with time windows…

Abstract

Purpose

This research explores mitigating carbon emissions and integrating sustainability in e-commerce logistics by optimizing the multi-depot pollution routing problem with time windows (MDPRPTW). A proposed model contrasts non-collaborative and collaborative decision-making for order assignment among logistics service providers (LSPs), incorporating low-carbon considerations.

Design/methodology/approach

The model is substantiated using improved adaptive large neighborhood search (IALNS), tabu search (TS) and oriented ant colony algorithm (OACA) within the context of e-commerce logistics. For model validation, a normal distribution is employed to generate random demand and inputs, derived from the location and requirements files of LSPs.

Findings

This research validates the efficacy of e-commerce logistics optimization and IALNS, TS and OACA algorithms, especially when demand follows a normal distribution. It establishes that cooperation among LSPs can substantially reduce carbon emissions and costs, emphasizing the importance of integrating sustainability in e-commerce logistics optimization.

Research limitations/implications

This paper proposes a meta-heuristic algorithm to solve the NP-hard problem. Methodologies such as reinforcement learning can be investigated in future work.

Practical implications

This research can help logistics managers understand the status of sustainable and cost-effective logistics operations and provide a basis for optimal decision-making.

Originality/value

This paper describes the complexity of the MDPRPTW model, which addresses both carbon emissions and cost reduction. Detailed information about the algorithm, methodology and computational studies is investigated. The research problem encompasses various practical aspects related to routing optimization in e-commerce logistics, aiming for sustainable development.

Details

Industrial Management & Data Systems, vol. 124 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-5577

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 February 2020

Haiming Liang, Xiao Zhang, Fang Fang and Xi Chen

The aim of this paper is to propose an optimization method for determining the emergency action, in which the compatibility between emergency alternatives and the collaborative

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to propose an optimization method for determining the emergency action, in which the compatibility between emergency alternatives and the collaborative relationship between departments are considered.

Design/methodology/approach

The individual emergency cost and individual emergency effect of each emergency alternative are calculated. And the collaborative emergency cost and collaborative emergency effect associated with a pair of emergency alternatives are calculated. Then, a bi-objective programming model maximizing the total emergency effect and minimizing the total emergency cost is constructed. A novel nondominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NNSGA II) is designed to solve the constructed model, subsequently. Finally, an example is given to illustrate the use of the proposed method, and the performance of NNSGA II is evaluated through a simulation experiment.

Findings

This paper proposes an effective method to manage complex emergency events that requires the coordinations of multiple departments. Also, this paper provides a new algorithm to determine an appropriate emergency action that performs well in managing both the emergency cost and emergency effect.

Originality/value

The findings contribute to the current methods in the field of emergency management. The method is used for dealing with the individual information of emergency alternatives and the collaborative information associated with a pair of alternatives.

Article
Publication date: 13 December 2022

Kejia Chen, Jintao Chen, Lixi Yang and Xiaoqian Yang

Flights are often delayed owing to emergencies. This paper proposes a cooperative slot secondary assignment (CSSA) model based on a collaborative decision-making (CDM) mechanism…

Abstract

Purpose

Flights are often delayed owing to emergencies. This paper proposes a cooperative slot secondary assignment (CSSA) model based on a collaborative decision-making (CDM) mechanism, and the operation mode of flight waves designs an improved intelligent algorithm to solve the optimal flight plan and minimize the total delay of passenger time.

Design/methodology/approach

Taking passenger delays, transfer delays and flight cancellation delays into account comprehensively, the total delay time is minimized as the objective function. The model is verified by a linear solver and compared with the first come first service (FCFS) method to prove the effectiveness of the method. An improved adaptive partheno-genetic algorithm (IAPGA) using hierarchical serial number coding was designed, combining elite and roulette strategies to find pareto solutions.

Findings

Comparing and analyzing the experimental results of various scale examples, the optimization model in this paper is greatly optimized compared to the FCFS method in terms of total delay time, and the IAPGA algorithm is better than the algorithm before in terms of solution performance and solution set quality.

Originality/value

Based on the actual situation, this paper considers the operation mode of flight waves. In addition, the flight plan solved by the model can be guaranteed in terms of feasibility and effectiveness, which can provide airlines with reasonable decision-making opinions when reassigning slot resources.

Details

International Journal of Intelligent Computing and Cybernetics, vol. 16 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1756-378X

Keywords

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