In this paper, a hybrid meta-heuristic algorithm, based on imperialistic competition algorithm (ICA), harmony search (HS), and simulated annealing (SA) is presented. The body of the proposed hybrid algorithm is based on ICA. The proposed hybrid algorithm inherits the advantages of the process of...

In this paper, teaching–learning-based optimization (TLBO) is proposed to solve flexible job shop scheduling problem (FJSP) based on the integrated approach with an objective to minimize makespan. An FJSP is an extension of basic job-shop scheduling problem. There are two sub problems in FJSP....

This paper draws on the “human reliability” concept as a structure for gaining insight into the maintenance workforce assessment in a process industry. Human reliability hinges on developing the reliability of humans to a threshold that guides the maintenance workforce to execute accurate...

Flexible flow shop (or a hybrid flow shop) scheduling problem is an extension of classical flow shop scheduling problem. In a simple flow shop configuration, a job having ‘g’ operations is performed on ‘g’ operation centres (stages) with each stage having only one machine. If any stage...

This paper studies the operating characteristics of an MX/Hk/1 queueing system under multiple vacation policy. It is assumed that the server goes for vacation as soon as the system becomes empty. When he returns from a vacation and there is one or more customers waiting in the queue, he serves...

This study is concerned with threshold F-policy and N-policy for controlling the arrivals and service in the queueing scenario of a machining system, having active and redundant components. For both F-policy and N-policy models, the queue size distributions are determined by the recursive...

Considering the competition in today’s business environment, tactical planning of a supply chain becomes more complex than before. In many multi-product inventory systems, substitution flexibility can improve profits. This paper aims to prepare a comprehensive substitution inventory model,...

Cross-docking is a logistic concept, which plays an important role in supply chain management by decreasing inventory holding, order packing, transportation costs and delivery time. Paying attention to these concerns, and importance of the congestion in cross docks, we present a mixed-integer...

This paper presents a new mathematical model to solve cell formation problem in cellular manufacturing systems, where inter-arrival time, processing time, and machine breakdown time are probabilistic. The objective function maximizes the number of operations of each part with more arrival rate...

Within the competition in today’s business environment, the design of supply chains becomes more complex than before. This paper deals with the retailer’s location problem when customers choose their vendors, and inventory costs have been considered for retailers. In a competitive location...