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Article
Publication date: 13 May 2022

Alireza Bakhshi, Amir Aghsami and Masoud Rabbani

Unfortunately, the occurrence of natural disasters is inevitable all over the world. Hence, this paper aims to analyze a scenario-based collaborative problem in a relief supply…

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Abstract

Purpose

Unfortunately, the occurrence of natural disasters is inevitable all over the world. Hence, this paper aims to analyze a scenario-based collaborative problem in a relief supply chain (RSC), where nongovernmental organizations can participate in relief activities with governmental organizations. This study focuses on location-allocation, inventory management and distribution planning under uncertain demand, budget, transportation and holding costs where government and private distribution centers receive relief items from suppliers then send them to affected areas. The performance of the proposed model is surveyed in a real case study in Dorud.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper develops a nonlinear mixed-integer programming model that seeks to maximize the coverage of demand points and minimize operating costs and traveled distance. The linear programming-metric technique and grasshopper optimization algorithm are applied to survey the model's applicability and efficiency.

Findings

This study compares noncollaborative and collaborative cases in terms of the number of applied distribution centers and RSC's goals, then demonstrates that the collaborative model not only improves the coverage of demand points but also minimizes cost and traveled distance. In fact, the presented approach helps governments efficiently surmount problems created after a disaster, notwithstanding existing uncertainties, by determining a strategic plan for collaboration with nongovernmental organizations for relief activities.

Originality/value

Relief strategies considered in previous research have not been sufficiently examined from the perspective of collaboration of governmental and nongovernmental organizations and provided an approach to develop the coverage of affected areas and reducing costs and traveled distance despite various uncertainties. Hence, the authors aim to manage RSCs better by offering a mathematical model whose performance has been proved in a real case study.

Details

Journal of Modelling in Management, vol. 18 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1746-5664

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 July 2023

Yijie Zhang, Ling Ma, Ziyi Guo, Tao Li and Fengyuan Zou

Considering only two-dimensional (2D) ease allowance cannot fully reflect the three-dimensional (3D) relationship between the position of clothing and the human body. The purpose…

Abstract

Purpose

Considering only two-dimensional (2D) ease allowance cannot fully reflect the three-dimensional (3D) relationship between the position of clothing and the human body. The purpose of this paper is to propose a method with a 3D space vector and corresponding distance ease to characterize fitting garments and then used to construct personalized clothing for similar shape body.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, a 3D scanner was used to obtain mannequin and fitted garment data, and 17 layers of cross-sections of the upper body were extracted. Then, 37 space vectors and corresponding space angles on each cross-section were obtained with the original point. Secondly, the detailed distance ease between the mannequin and garment was constructed due to the difference between garment vectors and body vectors. Thirdly, the distance ease mathematical models were achieved and used to calculate distance ease on a similar shape body. Additionally, the fit garment is constructed, and the garment pattern is altered by the geometric pattern alteration method.

Findings

The results show that 3D space vectors can explain the relationship between body skin and garment surface of the upper body properly. The distance ease is modeled by mathematic expressions and successfully used to make a new garment to fit a similar shape body.

Originality/value

The proposed method of constructing garments based on distance ease and 3D space vectors can create a fitted garment for a similar shape body effectively and accurately. It is useful for the personalized garment design and suitable for the manufacturing process.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 35 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 March 2015

Junqiang Su, Bingfei Gu, Guolian Liu and Bugao Xu

– The purpose of this paper is to focus on the determination of distance ease of pants from the 3D scanning data of a clothed and unclothed body.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the determination of distance ease of pants from the 3D scanning data of a clothed and unclothed body.

Design/methodology/approach

A human model whose body size conformed to the Chinese dummy standard and four pairs of suit pants were chosen for the study. The scanned surfaces of both the body and the pant were superimposed based on the preset markers. The circumferences at four important positions – abdomen, hip, thigh and knee – were selected for pant ease determination. At one position (e.g. hip), the two cross-sections were divided into several characteristic sections and the distance ease, i.e. the space between the cross-sections at each section was measured. The regression equations between the distance ease and ease allowance were then derived so that the distance ease can be estimated.

Findings

The relationship was found between the distance ease and the ease allowance. Meanwhile, a mathematic model was established to convert the distance ease into the increments of a pant pattern, which helps to develop an individual pant pattern automatically.

Social implications

The paper provided the concept and the method to customize a pant by using the 3D scanning data of body. It created a link between the 3D distance ease and the 2D ease allowance, and the model to calculate the distance ease increments which warrant proper ease distributions. The method helps to develop an individualized garment pattern automatically from a basic and tight pant pattern.

Originality/value

Understanding the relationship between the distance ease and the ease allowance and increments of pattern could help develop an individual apparel pattern from 3D measurements. This paper showed a way to solve the problem of distribution of the apparel ease in a virtual environment and convert body measurements from a 3D scanner into personalized apparel patterns.

Details

International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, vol. 27 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-6222

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 31 August 2012

Amparo Baviera‐Puig, Juan Buitrago‐Vera and Francisco Mas‐Verdú

This study aims to analyse the provision of knowledge‐intensive services (KIS) by technology centres based on approaches used in the literature on trade areas.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to analyse the provision of knowledge‐intensive services (KIS) by technology centres based on approaches used in the literature on trade areas.

Design/methodology/approach

The techniques employed derive from the literature on trade areas (customer spotting and ring studies) and spatial analysis (nearest neighbour analysis, Ripley's K statistic and median centre).

Findings

The research demonstrates that there is a geographic factor in the distribution of firms associated with a technology centre and some of their characteristics depend on their proximity to such a centre. Trade areas are determined and access facilities are detected. It has also been observed how geographic proximity is coupled with functional (sector) factors in the firm‐technology centre relationship.

Practical implications

These findings may contribute towards strategies for locating technology centres, and may be extended to future centre networks and to the development of more efficient marketing strategies aimed at attracting and acquiring client firms.

Originality/value

To date, little is known about the spatial distribution of firms associated with technology centres, nor are there studies that relate the profile of user firms in relation to the distance from their premises to the technology centre. Using methodology previously applied to trade areas, this research has identified the spatial pattern of associated firms which may be of use for a variety of purposes.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 50 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 November 2009

Wenhui Fan, Huayu Xu and Xin Xu

The purpose of this paper is to formulate and simulate the model for vehicle routing problem (VRP) on a practical application in logistics distribution.

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to formulate and simulate the model for vehicle routing problem (VRP) on a practical application in logistics distribution.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the real data of a distribution center in Utica, Michigan, USA, the design of VRP is modeled as a multi‐objective optimization problem which considers three objectives. The non‐dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA‐II) is adopted to solve this multi‐objective problem. On the other hand, the VRP model is simulated and an object‐oriented idea is employed to analyze the classes, functions, and attributes of all involved objects on VRP. A modularized objectification model is established on AnyLogic software, which can simulate the practical distribution process by changing parameters dynamically and randomly. The simulation model automatically controls vehicles motion by programs, and has strong expansibility. Meanwhile, the model credibility is strengthened by introducing random traffic flow to simulate practical traffic conditions.

Findings

The computational results show that the NSGA‐II algorithm is effective in solving this practical problem. Moreover, the simulation results suggest that by analyzing and controlling specific key factors of VRP, the distribution center can get useful information for vehicle scheduling and routing.

Originality/value

Multi‐objective problems are seldom considered on VRPs, yet they are of great practical value in logistics distribution. This paper is mainly focused on multi‐objective VRP which is derived from a practical distribution center. The NSGA‐II algorithm is applied in this problem and the AnyLogic software is employed as the simulation tool. In addition, this paper deals with several key factors of VRP in order to control and simulate the distribution process. The computational and simulation results regarding VRPs constitute the main contribution of our paper.

Details

COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering, vol. 28 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0332-1649

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 April 2019

H.X. Wu, Yunxin Zhang, Lishu Wang, Dongjuan Chen and Chao Ma

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of different infiltration heads on soil water movement using a free infiltration test for small-diameter tube outflow furrow…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of different infiltration heads on soil water movement using a free infiltration test for small-diameter tube outflow furrow irrigation under mulch film.

Design/methodology/approach

The test consisted of small-diameter tube outflow furrow irrigation under mulch film with three different infiltration heads (3, 4 and 5 cm) and furrow drip irrigation under mulch film using an infiltration head of 4 cm (CK).

Findings

During irrigation, the accumulated infiltration and migration distance of the wetting front increased with time. During the same infiltration time, both the accumulated infiltration and horizontal migration distance of the wetting front increased with the larger infiltration head, whereas the vertical migration distance of the wetting front gradually decreased. With increasing distance from the furrow center, soil moisture content declined, but the uniformity of its distribution increased as the infiltration head increased.

Originality/value

This study can provide scientific basis for the use of small-diameter tube outflow furrow irrigation under mulch film.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. 16 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 July 2020

Hafize Yılmaz and Özgür Kabak

Locating disaster response centers is one of the key elements of efficient relief operations. The location and infrastructure of the candidate facilities usually conform to the…

Abstract

Purpose

Locating disaster response centers is one of the key elements of efficient relief operations. The location and infrastructure of the candidate facilities usually conform to the required criteria at different levels. This study aims to identify the criteria for the main and local distribution center location problem separately and prioritize each candidate distribution center using a hybrid multiple criteria decision-making approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model incorporates analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solutions (TOPSIS) under interval type-2 fuzzy sets (IT2FSs) to overcome the uncertainty of experts` judgments and expressions in the evaluations of candidate distribution centers. In the proposed approach, weights of the criteria are determined using type-2 fuzzy AHP and the candidate distribution centers are prioritized using type-2 fuzzy TOPSIS.

Findings

Transportation, cost, infrastructure and security are determined as the main criteria for the main distribution center location criteria. Cost, warehouse facilities and security are the main criteria for local distribution center location selection. Prioritization enables decision-makers to assess each alternative accordingly to be able to select the best locations/facilities for efficient disaster response operations.

Originality/value

This study proposes new multi-criteria decision support models for prioritizing disaster response distribution centers. IT2FSs are used to be able to reflect both the complexity and vagueness of disaster environment and expert opinions. Different support models are suggested for main and local distribution centers considering their different missions. The proposed methodology is applied in Istanbul city, Turkey, where a high-magnitude earthquake is expected.

Details

Journal of Enterprise Information Management, vol. 33 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0398

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 15 September 2017

Kwame Owusu Kwateng, Archibald Donkoh and Abdul Samed Muntaka

Congestion at Ghana’s main seaports is a problem that has received much attention recently. This is as a result of continuous increase in containerized cargo. To increase the…

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Abstract

Purpose

Congestion at Ghana’s main seaports is a problem that has received much attention recently. This is as a result of continuous increase in containerized cargo. To increase the capacity of Ghana’ seaport, the Ministry of Transport through the Ghana Shippers Council initiated the Boankra Inland Port Project. The aim of this paper is to assess the feasibility and economic effects of implementing the Boankra Inland Port as a solution to reduce congestion at the main seaports, as well as reduce transportation cost.

Design/methodology/approach

The location of the inland port was assessed using the gravitational model. Data for the gravitational model are distances from the main seaports in Ghana and Boankra Inland Port to major hinterland destinations and population of the destinations. Also, 210 respondents were selected and interviewed on contribution of the dry port concept to the economy and transportation management in Ghana.

Findings

The results of the gravitational model support the location of Boankra as an inland port. A further comparison between Tema and Takoradi shows that Tema has a better location as a distribution center than Takoradi.

Practical implications

Although Tema and Takoradi are the main seaports in Ghana, the implementation of the Boankra inland port will reduce the transportation cost for cargo with hinterland destinations, therefore making it a rational and cost-efficient location for transit transportation.

Originality/value

This paper is among the first significant attempts to evaluate the suitability of inland port implementation in Ghana.

Details

Maritime Business Review, vol. 2 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2397-3757

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 June 2022

Xiaofeng Xu, Wenzhi Liu, Mingyue Jiang and Ziru Lin

The rapid development of smart cities and green logistics has stimulated a lot of research on reverse logistics, and the diversified data also provide the possibility of…

281

Abstract

Purpose

The rapid development of smart cities and green logistics has stimulated a lot of research on reverse logistics, and the diversified data also provide the possibility of innovative research on location-routing problem (LRP) under reverse logistics. The purpose of this paper is to use panel data to assist in the study of multi-cycle and multi-echelon LRP in reverse logistics network (MCME-LRP-RLN), and thus reduce the cost of enterprise facility location.

Design/methodology/approach

First, a negative utility objective function is generated based on panel data and incorporated into a multi-cycle and multi-echelon location-routing model integrating reverse logistics. After that, an improved algorithm named particle swarm optimization-multi-objective immune genetic algorithm (PSO-MOIGA) is proposed to solve the model.

Findings

There is a paradox between the total cost of the enterprise and the negative social utility, which means that it costs a certain amount of money to reduce the negative social utility. Firms can first design an open-loop logistics system to reduce cost, and at the same time, reduce negative social utility by leasing facilities.

Practical implications

This study provides firms with more flexible location-routing options by dividing them into multiple cycles, so they can choose the right option according to their development goals.

Originality/value

This research is a pioneering study of MCME-LRP-RLN problem and incorporates data analysis techniques into operations research modeling. Later, the PSO algorithm was incorporated into the crossover of MOIGA in order to solve the multi-objective large-scale problems, which improved the convergence speed and performance of the algorithm. Finally, the results of the study provide some valuable management recommendations for logistics planning.

Details

Industrial Management & Data Systems, vol. 122 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-5577

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 December 2019

Ali Mostafaeipour, Sajjad Sadeghi, Mehdi Jahangiri, Omid Nematollahi and Ali Rezaeian Sabbagh

Wind as a major source of renewable energy has received tremendous attentions due to its unique features to reduce carbon emission and also to keep the environment safe…

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Abstract

Purpose

Wind as a major source of renewable energy has received tremendous attentions due to its unique features to reduce carbon emission and also to keep the environment safe. Nevertheless, to use wind energy properly, the environmental circumstances and geographical location related to wind intensity should be considered as a priority. Different factors may affect the selection of a suitable location for developments of wind power plants; thus, these factors should be considered concurrently to identify the optimum location of wind plants.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, first, basic data envelopment analysis (DEA) was used, then dual DEA was used and, finally, Anderson Petersen (AP) model of dual DEA was selected to prioritize cities or decision-making units (DMUs). Numerical Taxonomy (NT) method was also used to assess the validity of AP dual model in DEA. The prescribed approach was applied for five cities in East Azerbaijan province of Iran.

Findings

The results indicate that wind power as a renewable energy can be harnessed in few cities, and the ranking by DEA illustrated that the city of Tabriz is the first priority.

Practical implications

Low environmental degradation effects in comparison to other methods and the ability to utilization at a widespread level include the benefits of using wind energy in the generation of electricity. In this regard, the study of relevant potentials and finding suitable locations for the deployment of wind energy utilization equipment are essential. Using DEA method helps us to choose optimal locations according to different criteria.

Social implications

Wind energy is justifiable in reducing social costs in comparison with fossil fuel plants, which includes negative effects, and its electricity can be used as a sustainable energy in the country's economic, social and cultural development.

Originality/value

For identifying the most proper location for development of wind power plants in Iran, DEA is applied for the first time to prioritize the suitable locations for installations of wind turbines among five different cities in the East Azerbaijan region. A number of crucial factors including land price, distance to power, rate of natural hazards, wind speed and topography are considered for location optimization of wind turbines for the first time. Also, to validate the results of DEA method, NT method is used to assess the validity of AP dual model in DEA.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. 18 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

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