Economizing logistic costs of the manufacturing system using mathematical modeling to aid decision-making

Abstract

The paper highlights the problem of mathematical modelling of manufacturing processes taking place in the highly sophisticated logistic system. Its real state is represented by a manufacturing hall equipped with robotic centers which carry out pre-programmed operations. The charge material is supplied in the form of liquid aluminum and stored in base tanks which are supplied in time by an outsourcing company. Charge material is transported from the base tanks to robotic centers by trolleys with built-in tanks. Ready products (e.g. engine blocks) are moved to the storing area located next to the adequate centre. Customers' orders are to be made at optimized costs in time. Therefore, the main criterion remains to minimize production costs within the existing manufacturing and technological constraints. The main goal of mathematical modeling is to support decision making as the course of production cannot be alternated once it is set. The system is controlled by heuristic algorithms.