List of articles (by subject) طراحی آزمایشات
-
Open Access Article
1 - An Integrated Model of Project Scheduling and Material Ordering: A Hybrid Simulated Annealing and Genetic Algorithm
Nima Zoraghi Amir Abbas Najafi سید تقی اخوان نیاکیThis study aims to deal with a more realistic combined problem of project scheduling and material ordering. The goal is to minimize thetotal material holding and ordering costs by determining the starting time of activities along with material ordering schedules subject MoreThis study aims to deal with a more realistic combined problem of project scheduling and material ordering. The goal is to minimize thetotal material holding and ordering costs by determining the starting time of activities along with material ordering schedules subject tosome constraints. The problem is first mathematically modelled. Then a hybrid simulated annealing and genetic algorithm is proposed tosolve it. In addition, some experiments are designed and the Taguchi method is employed to both tune the parameters of the proposedalgorithm and to evaluate its performance. The results of the performance analysis show the efficiency of the proposed methodology. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
2 - Complete Closest-Target Based Directional FDH Measures of Efficiency in DEA
Mahmood Mehdiloozad Israfil RoshdiIn this paper, we aim to overcome three major shortcomings of the FDH (Free Disposal Hull) directional distance function through developing two new, named Linear and Fractional CDFDH, complete FDH measures of efficiency. To accomplish this, we integrate the concepts of MoreIn this paper, we aim to overcome three major shortcomings of the FDH (Free Disposal Hull) directional distance function through developing two new, named Linear and Fractional CDFDH, complete FDH measures of efficiency. To accomplish this, we integrate the concepts of similarity and FDH directional distance function. We prove that the proposed measures are translation invariant and unit invariant. In addition, we present effective enumeration algorithms to compute them. Our proposed measures have several practical advantages such as: (a) providing closest Pareto-efficient observed targets (b) incorporating the decision maker’s preference information into efficiency analysis and (c) being flexible in computer programming. We illustrate the newly developed approach with a real world data set. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
3 - Meta-heuristic Algorithms for an Integrated Production-Distribution Planning Problem in a Multi-Objective Supply Chain
Abolfazl Kazemi Fatemeh Kangi Maghsoud AmiriIn today's globalization, an effective integration of production and distribution plans into a unified framework is crucial for attaining competitive advantage. This paper addresses an integrated multi-product and multi-time period production/distribution planning probl MoreIn today's globalization, an effective integration of production and distribution plans into a unified framework is crucial for attaining competitive advantage. This paper addresses an integrated multi-product and multi-time period production/distribution planning problem for a two-echelon supply chain subject to the real-world variables and constraints. It is assumed that all transportations are outsourced to third-party logistics providers and all-unit quantity discounts in transportation costs are taken into consideration. The problem has been formulated as a multi-objective mixed-integer linear programming model which attempts to simultaneously minimize total delivery time and total transportation costs. Due to the complexity of the considered problem, genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm are developed within the LP-metric method and desirability function framework for solving the real-sized problems in reasonable computational time. As the performance of meta-heuristic algorithms is significantly influenced by calibrating their parameters, Taguchi methodology has been used to tune the parameters of the developed algorithms. Finally, the efficiency and applicability of the proposed model and solution methodologies are demonstrated through several problems in different sizes Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
4 - A New Uni-attribute Control Chart to Monitor the Number of Nonconformities
sonia javadi S.T.A NiakiThe most well-known uni-arribute control chart used to monitor the number of nonconformities per unit is the Shewhart type C-chart. In this paper, a new method is proposed in an attempt to reduce the false alarm rate in the C-chart. To do this, the decision on beliefs ( MoreThe most well-known uni-arribute control chart used to monitor the number of nonconformities per unit is the Shewhart type C-chart. In this paper, a new method is proposed in an attempt to reduce the false alarm rate in the C-chart. To do this, the decision on beliefs (DOB) concept is first uti [1] Corresponding author e-mail: f.kangi@yahoo.com lized to design an iterative method, where the belief is used to decide whether a process is in an in-control or out-of-control state. Then, a new statistic is defined based on the DOB and the chart is designed accordingly. Some simulation experiments are also performed to evaluate the performance of the proposed scheme and to compare its in-control and out-of-control average run length (ARL) with those of the C and the EWMA charts in different scenarios of mean shifts. Finally, a case study is given to illustrate the application of the proposed methodology. The results show the proposed control chart outperforms the other two charts. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
5 - A Hierarchical Production Planning and Finite Scheduling Framework for Part Families in Flexible Job-shop (with a case study)
Davod Abachi fariborz jolai hasan halehTendency to optimization in last decades has resulted in creating multi-product manufacturing systems. Production planning in such systems is difficult, because optimal production volume that is calculated must be consistent with limitation of production system. Hence, MoreTendency to optimization in last decades has resulted in creating multi-product manufacturing systems. Production planning in such systems is difficult, because optimal production volume that is calculated must be consistent with limitation of production system. Hence, integration has been proposed to decide about these problems concurrently. Main problem in integration is how we can relate production planning in medium-term timeframe with scheduling in short-term timeframe. Our contribution creates production planning and scheduling framework in flexible job shop environment with respect to time-limit of each machine in order to produce different parts families in automotive industry. Production planning and scheduling have iterative relationship. In this strategy information flow is transformed reciprocative between production planning and scheduling for satisfying time-limit of each machine. The proposed production planning has heuristic approach and renders a procedure to determine production priority of different part families based on safety stock. Scheduling is performed with ant colony optimization and assigns machine in order of priority to different part families on each frozen horizon. Results showed that, the proposed heuristic algorithm for planning decreased parts inventory at the end of planning horizon. Also, results of proposed ant colony optimization was near the optimal solution .The framework was performed to produce sixty four different part families in flexible job-shop with fourteen different machines. Output from this approach determined volume of production batches for part families on each frozen horizon and assigned different operations to machines. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
6 - Scheduling of a flexible flow shop with multiprocessor task by a hybrid approach based on genetic and imperialist competitive algorithms
Javad Rezaeian Hany Seidgar Morteza KianiThis paper presents a new mathematical model for a hybrid flow shop scheduling problem with multiprocessor tasks in which sequence dependent set up times and preemption are considered. The objective is to minimize the weighted sum of makespan and maximum tardiness. Thre MoreThis paper presents a new mathematical model for a hybrid flow shop scheduling problem with multiprocessor tasks in which sequence dependent set up times and preemption are considered. The objective is to minimize the weighted sum of makespan and maximum tardiness. Three meta-heuristic methods based on genetic algorithm (GA), imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA) and a hybrid approach of GA and ICA are proposed to solve the generated problems. The performances of algorithms are evaluated by computational time and Relative Percentage Deviation (RPD) factors. The results indicate that ICA solves the problems faster than other algorithms and the hybrid algorithm produced best solution based on RPD. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
7 - Agile Supplier Selection In Sanitation Supply Chain Using Fuzzy VIKOR Method
Mohammadreza Shariari nazanin pilevariRegarding to the diversified needs of domestic and global customers and various products of domestic and global competitors, importance of agility in supply chain management becomes more important. Suppliers have to provide materials and essential resources of manufactu MoreRegarding to the diversified needs of domestic and global customers and various products of domestic and global competitors, importance of agility in supply chain management becomes more important. Suppliers have to provide materials and essential resources of manufacturers in a short time without any lead time.In this research, we identified many criteria for agility in sanitation supply chain. Then with utilization of Fuzzy Delphi, ideas of experts about criteria have been gathered in 8 final criteria. Next step is devoted to prioritization of five suppliers in sanitation industry based on the final criteria with fuzzy VIKORRegarding to the diversified needs of domestic and global customers and various products of domestic and global competitors, importance of agility in supply chain management becomes more important. Suppliers have to provide materials and essential resources of manufacturers in a short time without any lead time.In this research, we identified many criteria for agility in sanitation supply chain. Then with utilization of Fuzzy Delphi, ideas of experts about criteria have been gathered in 8 final criteria. Next step is devoted to prioritization of five suppliers in sanitation industry based on the final criteria with fuzzy VIKORRegarding to the diversified needs of domestic and global customers and various products of domestic and global competitors, importance of agility in supply chain management becomes more important. Suppliers have to provide materials and essential resources of manufacturers in a short time without any lead time.In this research, we identified many criteria for agility in sanitation supply chain. Then with utilization of Fuzzy Delphi, ideas of experts about criteria have been gathered in 8 final criteria. Next step is devoted to prioritization of five suppliers in sanitation industry based on the final criteria with fuzzy VIKOR Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
8 - The project portfolio selection and scheduling problem: mathematical model and algorithms
Bahman NaderiThis paper investigates the problem of selecting and scheduling a set of projects among available projects. Each project consists of several tasks and to perform each one some resource is required. The objective is to maximize total benefit. The paper constructs a mathe MoreThis paper investigates the problem of selecting and scheduling a set of projects among available projects. Each project consists of several tasks and to perform each one some resource is required. The objective is to maximize total benefit. The paper constructs a mathematical formulation in form of mixed integer linear programming model. Three effective metaheuristics in form of the imperialist competitive algorithm, simulated annealing and genetic algorithm are developed to solve such a hard problem. The proposed algorithms employ advanced operators. The performance of the proposed algorithms is numerically evaluated. The results show the high performance of the imperialist competitive algorithm outperforms the other algorithms. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
9 - VMI-type Supply Chains: a Brief Review
Mohsen Akhbari Yahia Zare Mehrjerdi Hasan Khademi Zare Ahmad MakuiThe primary purpose of this paper is to highlight for the research community and practitioners the various aspects of using VMI-type supply chains in today’s business environment as well as a number of directions for future studies. In this regard, fifty articles MoreThe primary purpose of this paper is to highlight for the research community and practitioners the various aspects of using VMI-type supply chains in today’s business environment as well as a number of directions for future studies. In this regard, fifty articles published in major international journals, beginning in 1995, which contribute to the VMI-type supply chains are reviewed via a systematic review methodology. Our findings show there is an incremental growth in employing of VMI strategies in logistic and supply chains. This paper characterizes the design aspects required to configure and establish a VMI-type supply chain in the industry including demand pattern, number of products, contract type between two parties, and profit sharing scheme. Moreover, the current gaps on the current state of VMI-type supply chain in literature are highlighted in last section of this paper that may motivate future studies. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
10 - A Hybrid Method Based on Fuzzy AHP and VIKOR for the Discrete Time-Cost-Quality Trade-off Problem
alireza eydi Hiva Farughi farid abdiTime, cost and quality are considered as the main components in managing each project. Previous researches have mainly focused on the time-cost trade-off problems. Recently quality is considered as the most important factor in project�s success, whi MoreTime, cost and quality are considered as the main components in managing each project. Previous researches have mainly focused on the time-cost trade-off problems. Recently quality is considered as the most important factor in project�s success, which is influenced by time acceleration that is the less time is spent the more success is gained. In time-cost-quality trade-off problems, each activity can be done in various execution modes and determination of these execution modes is seen as to minimize the project time and cost and maximize its quality .In this paper, three integer programming models are provided and one of the main objectives is optimized in each model by assigning the proper bound to other objectives. Following the non-dominated solutions obtained by solving models, and by means of hybrid approach of Fuzzy AHP strategy and VIKOR method regarded as multi-criteria decision making methods, the best possible alternative (from among non-dominated solutions) has been suggested.Fuzzy AHP method has been used to determine the importance rate of each objective. In this method linguistic variables were used which take us closer to reality. At the end, with applying these weights in VIKOR method, the best possible alternatives (among non-dominated solutions) were found. Using this hybrid approach can help managers, to a great extent, in selecting the appropriate solution so that maximum desirability is obtained due to the importance rate of the objective functions from the viewpoint of decision maker. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
11 - Measuring the overall performances of decision-making units in the presence of imprecise data
Hossein Azizi Alireza Bahari Rasul JahedData envelopment analysis (DEA) is a method for measuring the relative efficiencies of a set of decision-making units (DMUs) that use multiple inputs to produce multiple outputs. In this paper, we study the measurement of DMU performances in DEA in situations where inpu MoreData envelopment analysis (DEA) is a method for measuring the relative efficiencies of a set of decision-making units (DMUs) that use multiple inputs to produce multiple outputs. In this paper, we study the measurement of DMU performances in DEA in situations where input and/or output values are given as imprecise data. By imprecise data we mean situations where we only know that the actual values lie in certain intervals, or cases in which data are given only as ordinal relationships. In this paper, we present two distinct approaches obtaining the upper and lower bounds of efficiency which the DMU under evaluation can have with imprecise data. The optimistic approach seeks the best score among the various values of the efficiency score, while the pessimistic approach seeks the worst score. The main idea of the paper is illustrated using an example. Also, two real-world cases are presented to demonstrate how the efficiency interval is interpreted. The efficiency interval not only describes the actual situation in more detail, but also relieves the psychological pressure on all the evaluated DMUs and the decision-maker. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
12 - The Bi-Objective Location-Routing Problem based on Simultaneous Pickup and Delivery with Soft Time Window
Elham Jelodari Mamaghani Mostafa SetakThe location-routing problem is the most significant and yet new research field in location problems that considers simultaneously vehicle routing problem features with original one for achieving high-quality integrated distribution systems in beside of the global optim MoreThe location-routing problem is the most significant and yet new research field in location problems that considers simultaneously vehicle routing problem features with original one for achieving high-quality integrated distribution systems in beside of the global optimum. Simultaneous pickup and delivery based on time windows are the two main characteristics of logistic management that have been used separately in most of the location routing problem in spite of their various real-life application with together. Furthermore, distribution manager always trying to create a distributed system layout along with the lowest total system cost and enhancing service levels for providing all customers satisfaction. Accordingly, in the current paper is considered the mentioned gap, that is to say the bi-objective capacitated location-routing problem based on simultaneous pickup and delivery with soft time window and multi depots (BOCLRPSPDSTW). For achieving the main goal, bi-objective mixed-integer linear programming model for BOCLRPSPDSTW, on the one hand minimizing summation of all problem costs and on the other hand, for meeting customer service level minimizing maximum summation of delivery times and service times are addressed. To solve the presented model, NSGAII and NRGA are proposed and at last efficiency of the anticipated solutions are depicted by testing them in a data set. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
13 - Performance Improvement through a Marshaling Yard Storage Area in a Container Port Using Optimization via Simulation Technique (Case Study at Shahid Rajaee Container Port)
Mohammad Reza Ghanbari Parham AzimiContainer ports have been faced under increasing development during last 10 years. In such systems, the container transportation system has the most important effect on the total system. Therefore, there is a continuous need for the optimal use of equipment and faciliti MoreContainer ports have been faced under increasing development during last 10 years. In such systems, the container transportation system has the most important effect on the total system. Therefore, there is a continuous need for the optimal use of equipment and facilities in the ports. Regarding the several complicated structure and activities in container ports, this paper evaluates and compares two different storage strategies for storing containers in the yard. To do so and covering all actual stochastic events occur in the system, a simulation model of the real system was developed using loading and unloading norms as important criteria to evaluate the performance of Shahid Rajaee container port. By replicating the simulation model and considering the two strategies, it has been shown that using a marshaling yard policy has a significant effect on the performance level of the port which leads to cost reductions. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
14 - New Heuristic Algorithm for Flow Shop Scheduling with 3 Machines and 2 Robots Considering the Breakdown Interval of Machines and Robots Simultaneously
mahdi eghbali Mohammad Saidi Mehrabad hassan halehScheduling is an important subject of production and operations management area. In flow-shop scheduling, the objective is to obtain a sequence of jobs which when processed in a fixed order of machines, will optimize some well defined criteria. The concept of transporta MoreScheduling is an important subject of production and operations management area. In flow-shop scheduling, the objective is to obtain a sequence of jobs which when processed in a fixed order of machines, will optimize some well defined criteria. The concept of transportation time is very important in scheduling. Transportation can be done by robots. In situations that robots are used to transport materials (material handler), breakdown of the machines and robots have a significant role in the production concern. This paper deals with minimization of the total elapsed time for flow shop scheduling problem (number of machine=3) in which the effect of machine and robots breakdown interval are considered simultaneously. Furthermore, by providing an example, the proposed algorithm is described. A summary and future works conclude the paper Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
15 - Cell forming and cell balancing of virtual cellular manufacturing systems with alternative processing routes using genetic algorithm
Adib Hosseini Mohammad Mahdi Paydar Iraj Mahdavi Javid JouzdaniCellular manufacturing (CM) is one of the most important subfields in the design of manufacturing systems and as a recently emerged field of study and practice, virtual cellular manufacturing (VCM) inherits the importance from CM. One type of VCM problems is VCM with al MoreCellular manufacturing (CM) is one of the most important subfields in the design of manufacturing systems and as a recently emerged field of study and practice, virtual cellular manufacturing (VCM) inherits the importance from CM. One type of VCM problems is VCM with alternative processing routes from which the route for processing each part should be selected. In this research, a bi-objective mathematical programming model is designed in order to obtain optimal routing of parts, the layout of machines and the assignment of cells to locations and to minimize the production costs and to balance the cell loads. The proposed mathematical model is solved by multi-choice goal programming (MCGP). Since CM models are NP-Hard, a genetic algorithm (GA) is utilized to solve the model for large-sized problem instances and the results obtained from both methods are compared. Finally, a conclusion is made and some visions for future works are offered.Cellular manufacturing (CM) is one of the most important subfields in the design of manufacturing systems and as a recently emerged field of study and practice, virtual cellular manufacturing (VCM) inherits the importance from CM. One type of VCM problems is VCM with alternative processing routes from which the route for processing each part should be selected. In this research, a bi-objective mathematical programming model is designed in order to obtain optimal routing of parts, the layout of machines and the assignment of cells to locations and to minimize the production costs and to balance the cell loads. The proposed mathematical model is solved by multi-choice goal programming (MCGP). Since CM models are NP-Hard, a genetic algorithm (GA) is utilized to solve the model for large-sized problem instances and the results obtained from both methods are compared. Finally, a conclusion is made and some visions for future works are offered. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
16 - Profitability of Iranian Stock Market Based on Technical AnalysisTrading Rules
Sadigh Raissi Mohammad Reza ZakkizadeIn this study, we focused on Tehran stock exchange market analysis based on applying moving average rules. The Tehran stock exchange in the Middle East has evolved into an exciting and growing marketplace where individual and institutional investor trade securities of o MoreIn this study, we focused on Tehran stock exchange market analysis based on applying moving average rules. The Tehran stock exchange in the Middle East has evolved into an exciting and growing marketplace where individual and institutional investor trade securities of over 420 companies. In an attempt to examine the ability to earn excess return by exploiting moving average rules, the average annual return on exponential moving average and simple moving average strategies were compared with annual return generated by naive buy and hold strategy. The finding based on the paired t-confidence interval hypothetical test procedures indicates that the moving average rule has more capability in predicting Tehran market and employment of the proposed technique generates excess returns for investors. Based on the findings, it is concluded that the Tehran capital market has great opportunities to apply such technique for yield enhancement and portfolio diversification. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
17 - A Honey Bee Algorithm To Solve Quadratic Assignment Problem
mohamad mirzazadeh غلام حسن شیردل behrooz masoumiAssigning facilities to locations is one of the important problems, which significantly is influence in transportation cost reduction. In this study, we solve quadratic assignment problem (QAP), using a meta-heuristic algorithm with deterministic tasks and equality in f MoreAssigning facilities to locations is one of the important problems, which significantly is influence in transportation cost reduction. In this study, we solve quadratic assignment problem (QAP), using a meta-heuristic algorithm with deterministic tasks and equality in facilities and location number. It should be noted that any facility must be assign to only one location. In this paper, first of all, we have been described exact methods and heuristics, which are able to solve QAP; then we have been applied a meta-heuristic algorithm for it. QAP is a difficult problem and is in NP-hard class, so we have been used honey bee mating optimization (HBMO) algorithm to solve it.This method is new and have been applied and improved NP-hard problems. It’s a hybrid algorithm from Honey-Bee Mating system, simulated annealing and genetic algorithm. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
18 - Integrating AHP and data mining for effective retailer segmentation based on retailer lifetime value
Amin Parvaneh Hossein Abbasimehr Mohammad Jafar TarokhData mining techniques have been used widely in the area of customer relationship management (CRM). In this study, we have applied data mining techniques to address a problem in business-to-business (B2B) setting. In a manufacturer-retailer-consumer chain, a manufacture MoreData mining techniques have been used widely in the area of customer relationship management (CRM). In this study, we have applied data mining techniques to address a problem in business-to-business (B2B) setting. In a manufacturer-retailer-consumer chain, a manufacturer should improve its relationship with retailers to continue its business. Segmentation is a useful tool for identifying groups of similar retailers in order to improve retailer loyalty by developing and implementing segment-specific marketing strategies. In this study, we have proposed a methodology for retailer segmentation based on their LRFM variables (relation Length, Recency, Frequency and Monetary) and analytical hierarchy process (AHP). The proposed methodology has been implemented by using data of a firm from a hygienic industry in Iran. The empirical results indicated that there are six groups of retailers. After analyzing each segment according to LRFM values, we labeled each retailer group according to its performance. Furthermore, we provided some possible actions that can be taken in order to improve the relationship between the firm and retailers. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
19 - َA Multi-objective simulated annealing algorithm to solving flexible no-wait flowshop scheduling problems with transportation times
Bahman Naderi Hassan SadeghiThis paper deals with a bi-objective hybrid no-wait flowshop scheduling problem minimizing the makespan and total weighted tardiness, in which we consider transportation times between stages. Obtaining an optimal solution for this type of complex, large-sized problem in MoreThis paper deals with a bi-objective hybrid no-wait flowshop scheduling problem minimizing the makespan and total weighted tardiness, in which we consider transportation times between stages. Obtaining an optimal solution for this type of complex, large-sized problem in reasonable computational time by using traditional approaches and optimization tools is extremely difficult. This paper presents a new multi-objective simulated annealing algorithm (MOSA). A set of experimental instances are carried out to evaluate the algorithm by advanced multi-objective performance measures. The algorithm is carefully evaluated for its performance against available algorithm by means of multi-objective performance measures and statistical tools. The related results show that a variant of our proposed MOSA provides sound performance comparing with other algorithms. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
20 - A Fuzzy Goal Programming Model for Efficient Portfolio Selection.
Abolfazl Kazemi Ali Shakourloo Alireza AlinezhadThis paper considers a multi-objective portfolio selection problem imposed by gaining of portfolio, divided yield and risk control in an ambiguous investment environment, in which the return and risk are characterized by probabilistic numbers. Based on the theory of pos MoreThis paper considers a multi-objective portfolio selection problem imposed by gaining of portfolio, divided yield and risk control in an ambiguous investment environment, in which the return and risk are characterized by probabilistic numbers. Based on the theory of possibility, a new multi-objective portfolio optimization model with gaining of portfolio, divided yield and risk control is proposed and then the proposed model is solved as a fuzzy goal programming model to fulfill aspiration level of each objective. Furthermore, numerical example of efficient portfolio selection is provided to illustrate that proposed model is versatile enough to be applicable to various unexpected conditions. This paper considers a multi-objective portfolio selection problem imposed by gaining of portfolio, divided yield and risk control in an ambiguous investment environment, in which the return and risk are characterized by probabilistic numbers. Based on the theory of possibility, a new multi-objective portfolio optimization model with gaining of portfolio, divided yield and risk control is proposed and then the proposed model is solved as a fuzzy goal programming model to fulfill aspiration level of each objective. Furthermore, numerical example of efficient portfolio selection is provided to illustrate that proposed model is versatile enough to be applicable to various unexpected conditions. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
21 - A simulated annealing algorithm to determine a group layout and production plan in a dynamic cellular manufacturing system
Reza KiA Nikbakhsh Javadian Reza Tavakkoli-MoghaddamIn this paper, a mixed-integer linearized programming (MINLP) model is presented to design a group layout (GL) of a cellular manufacturing system (CMS) in a dynamic environment with considering production planning (PP) decisions. This model incorporates with an extensiv MoreIn this paper, a mixed-integer linearized programming (MINLP) model is presented to design a group layout (GL) of a cellular manufacturing system (CMS) in a dynamic environment with considering production planning (PP) decisions. This model incorporates with an extensive coverage of important manufacturing features used in the design of CMSs. There are also some features that make the presented model different from the previous studies. These include: 1) the variable number of cells, 2) machine depot keeping idle machines, and 3) integration of cell formation (CF), GL and PP decisions in a dynamic environment. The objective is to minimize the total costs (i.e., costs of intra-cell and inter-cell material handling, machine relocation, machine purchase, machine overhead, machine processing, forming cells, outsourcing and inventory holding). Two numerical examples are solved by the GAMS software to illustrate the results obtained by the incorporated features. Since the problem is NP-hard, an efficient simulated annealing (SA) algorithm is developed to solve the presented model. It is then tested using several test problems with different sizes and settings to verify the computational efficiency of the developed algorithm in compare to the GAMS software. The obtained results show that the quality of the solutions obtained by SA is entirely satisfactory in compare to GAMS software based on the objective value and computational time, especially for large-sized problems. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
22 - A Ratio-Based Efficiency Measurement for Ranking Multi-Stage Production Systems in DEA
Roza Azizi Reza Kazemi MatinConventional data envelopment analysis (DEA) models are used to measure efficiency score of production systems when they are considered as black boxes and their internal relationship is ignored. This paper deals with a common special case of network systems which is cal MoreConventional data envelopment analysis (DEA) models are used to measure efficiency score of production systems when they are considered as black boxes and their internal relationship is ignored. This paper deals with a common special case of network systems which is called multi-stage production system and can be generalized to many organizations. A multi stage production system has some stages in which the outputs of each stage are used as the inputs of the next stage to produce the final outputs of the system. Most of the approaches handling multi-stage systems in DEA evaluate efficiency measure of a production system considering the interrelationship between its stages; however, they do not present their ranking or impact of each stage in ranking of a special multi-stage system through comparison with the others. In this paper, considering the series internal structure of the multi-stage systems and their efficiency measure, we propose some new ratio-based DEA models to determine the best and the worst rank of the multi-stage systems over all sets of feasible weights. In order to improve the performance of the whole system, the proposed models are used to recognize the stages with the most important role in the system’s inefficiency. Some numerical examples are presented to illustrate the approach. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
23 - A Two-dimensional Warranty Model with Consideration of Customer and Manufacturer Objectives Solved with Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm
Amin Asadi Mohammad Saidi-Mehrabad Faranak Fathi AghdamWarranty is a powerful implement for marketing strategy that is used by manufacturersand creates satisfaction for consumers by ensuring to compensate for incorrect operation of the product. Warranty serviceresults ina cost named warranty cost for a manufacturer.This cos MoreWarranty is a powerful implement for marketing strategy that is used by manufacturersand creates satisfaction for consumers by ensuring to compensate for incorrect operation of the product. Warranty serviceresults ina cost named warranty cost for a manufacturer.This cost is a function of warranty policy, regions, and product failures pattern. Since this service coversthe cost of uncertain failure of the product, it makes some utility for customers. In this paper, we developed a novel customer utility function that is used as a customer objective to be maximized. In addition to the manufacturer objective, minimizing the warranty costisconsidered simultaneously. There are four restrictions on warranty parameters such as time, usage, unit product price and the R&D expenditure to be considered. Finally, we will propose a novel bi-objective model that maximizesthe utility function for customers and minimizesthe warranty cost for the manufacturer. This model will be solved with an evolutionary algorithmcalled Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA-II) and non-dominated Pareto solutionswill be gained from this method.To give a numerical instance, for a certain usage rate’s range of costumers, different warranties are provided and compared. It is believed that the computational results can help manufacturers to determine optimal solutions for the objective functions and consequentlywarranty parameters. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
24 - Investigating Knowledge Management Practices in a Successful Research and Development Organization
Milad Jasemi Morteza PiriIn this paper after a review on the concept and literature of knowledge management, the conceptual model of a successful knowledge management system that is currently being applied in a research and development (R&D) aerospace organization is presented and discussed MoreIn this paper after a review on the concept and literature of knowledge management, the conceptual model of a successful knowledge management system that is currently being applied in a research and development (R&D) aerospace organization is presented and discussed. The main contribution of the paper is presenting the model in its useful and practical status without becoming involved in theoretical discussions that have different shapes but similar meanings. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
25 - Three Approaches to Time Series Forecasting of Petroleum Demand in OECD Countries
Majid Khedmati Babak Ghalebsaz-JeddiPetroleum (crude oil) is one of the most important resources of energy and its demand and consumption is growing while it is a non-renewable energy resource. Hence forecasting of its demand is necessary to plan appropriate strategies for managing future requirements. In MorePetroleum (crude oil) is one of the most important resources of energy and its demand and consumption is growing while it is a non-renewable energy resource. Hence forecasting of its demand is necessary to plan appropriate strategies for managing future requirements. In this paper, three types of time series methods including univariate Seasonal ARIMA, Winters forecasting and Transfer Function-noise (TF) models are used to forecast the petroleum demand in OECD countries. To do this, we use the demand data from January 2001 to September 2010 and hold out data from October 2009 to September 2010 to test the sufficiency of the forecasts. For the TF model, OECD petroleum demand is modeled as a function of their GDP. We compare the root mean square error (RMSE) of the fitted models and check what percentage of the testing data is covered by the confidence intervals (C.I.). Accordingly we conclude that Transfer Function model demonstrates a better forecasting performance. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
26 - Application of Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA) for Efficient and Cost-effective Manufacturing: A Case Study at Bahir Dar Textile Share Company, Ethiopia
Tsehaye Beyene Sisay GebeyehuThe aim of this paper is to show the application of Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA) for efficient and cost-effective manufacturing. Companies need better economic gains from enhanced production, but downtime affects this paradigm. Bair Dar Textile Share Company (BDT MoreThe aim of this paper is to show the application of Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA) for efficient and cost-effective manufacturing. Companies need better economic gains from enhanced production, but downtime affects this paradigm. Bair Dar Textile Share Company (BDTSC) is no exception. The looming section of the case company faces on average 38.69% of downtime from the total production time which highly affects its production performance, and thus profitability. The research tries to show the economic gain from the reduced high downtime in the case company by taking the advantages of Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA). As a result FMEA, failure modes, cause, and their effects on the specific section of the company were identified and prioritized using their Risk Priority Numbers (RPN). By taking the FMEA on the looming process machines and focusing on the vital few 20% causes of the identified failure modes, the findings of the research show that the company can decrease the total downtime from its 178 loom machines by 299.04hrs/day. As a result, the company can save downtime that can produce 1,672.82 meters of fabric/cloth and enhance its performance by 4.18%. This downtime reduction in turn results in a daily profit of 38,220.56 ETB (Ethiopian Birr) or 11,466,168.00 ETB annually. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
27 - Developing a New Bi-Objective Functions Model for a Hierarchical Location-Allocation Problem Using the Queuing Theory and Mathematical Programming
Parham Azimi Abulfazl AsadollahiIn this research, a hierarchical location-allocation problem is modeled in a queue framework. The queue model is considered as M/M/1/k, in which system capacity is finite, equals to k. This is the main contribution of the current research. Customer's enters to the syste MoreIn this research, a hierarchical location-allocation problem is modeled in a queue framework. The queue model is considered as M/M/1/k, in which system capacity is finite, equals to k. This is the main contribution of the current research. Customer's enters to the system in order to find the service according to a Poisson. In this problem, the hierarchical location-allocation model is considered in two levels. Also, the model has two objective functions: maximizing the total number of demand coverage and minimizing the waiting time of customers in queues to receive services. After modeling and verifying the validity of the presented model, it is solved using NSGA II and MOPSO meta-heuristics. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
28 - Providing an Optimal Model of Affective Attitude in Customers' Purchasing Decisions in Industrial Markets
Seyedeh Hanieh Mirkiaei Tamijani Hamidreza Saeednia Zahra Alipour DarvishThe present study aimed to provide an optimal model of affective attitude in customers' purchasing decisions in industrial markets. In the present study, the researcher used a mixed approach. For this purpose, in the first study, to identify the components of affective MoreThe present study aimed to provide an optimal model of affective attitude in customers' purchasing decisions in industrial markets. In the present study, the researcher used a mixed approach. For this purpose, in the first study, to identify the components of affective attitude in customer purchasing decisions in industrial markets, grounded approach was used. In the second study, the model was tested using a quantitative method. The data collection tools in the first study included protocol and in-depth interviews with fifteen sales managers and CEOs of producers and university professors. In the next step, the required data were distributed among 320 customers and the results were analyzed in AMOS software. The present study was conducted by performing fifteen interviews to reach theoretical saturation and finally 100 open codes were extracted. Based on the theoretical literature, axial and selective coding was done and the results were presented in the form of six main dimensions and twenty-eight sub-dimensions. The present study model included main dimensions including satisfaction with industrial brand, decision making process, satisfaction with industrial marketing channel, strengthening relationship marketing, heuristics and price and twenty-eight sub-dimensions. The results show that the researcher’s paradigm model has a good fit for generalizing its results to a larger population. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
29 - Uncertainty Identification in Microblogs
Fairouz Zendaoui Walid Khaled Hidouci Saeed RouhaniMicroblogging, like Twitter, has become a popular platform of human expressions, through which users can easily produce content on breaking news, public events, or products. The massive amount of microblogging data is a useful and timely source that carries mass sentime MoreMicroblogging, like Twitter, has become a popular platform of human expressions, through which users can easily produce content on breaking news, public events, or products. The massive amount of microblogging data is a useful and timely source that carries mass sentiments, beliefs and opinions on various topics. Users express themselves freely with varying levels of uncertainty, which makes exploiting microblogs as a source of data a tedious task requiring this aspect to be taken into consideration. Here we talk about the uncertainty expressed in microblogs not the uncertainty relative to the claimed information factuality. This aspect that we approach has received little attention in the context of microblogging, whereas it is important to know with which degree of uncertainty the users intend to provide information. The research works carrying out the retrieval of information or investigation in microblogs, are particularly concerned by this subject. In this paper we present a state of the art on the identification of uncertainty in microblogs with the aim of identifying this issue and describing the current knowledge through the study of similar or related work. We mainly constated that, to adapt to the characteristics of social media, it is necessary to identify the uncertainty based on the contextual uncertain semantics rather than the traditional cue-phrases, and considering multiple sub-classes could provide more information for research on handing uncertainty in social media texts. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
30 - Dimensions of Market-Sensing Capability Identifying SMEs Created: A Systematic Literature Review
Intan Permana Ratih Hurriyati Vanessa Gaffar Lili WibowoMarket-sensing capability is effective in influencing SMEs performance. This theme has recently attracted the attention of marketing strategic academics. Hence, this paper aims to provide a theoretically based review of dimensions or market sensing capability. The syste MoreMarket-sensing capability is effective in influencing SMEs performance. This theme has recently attracted the attention of marketing strategic academics. Hence, this paper aims to provide a theoretically based review of dimensions or market sensing capability. The systematic quantitative literature review method is applied to select and analyze 18 relevant papers published in the period from 2002 to 2021. In doing so, this review market sensing capability is developed to explain how size and type of industry. The dimensions of market sensing capability proposed based on the results of a review of 18 articles are: 1) understanding, analyzing, listening, scanning, encouraging, identifying, anticipating, predicting, establishing, integrating, learning, discovering, acquiring, using, predicting, and creating (i.e., customer, competitor, company). This paper suggests different ways to apply dimension of market-sensing capability in SMEs. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
31 - Humanitarian Smart Supply Chain: Classification and New Trends for Future Research
Fatemeh Kheildar Parvaneh Samouei Jalal AshayeriDuring the crisis, relief supply chain management (also known as humanitarian supply chain management) has received great attention these days. The core questions facing many humanitarian organizations are: where are their strengths/weaknesses? Are they positioned to be MoreDuring the crisis, relief supply chain management (also known as humanitarian supply chain management) has received great attention these days. The core questions facing many humanitarian organizations are: where are their strengths/weaknesses? Are they positioned to be effective in their supply chain system? What challenges do you need to overcome? What do they need to do to take advantage of the technological opportunities offered nowadays? These questions have been addressed them extensively during the past two decades. This paper tries to review and classify some of the papers carried out in key areas of the humanitarian supply chain such as location, certainty and uncertainty, relief teams and injured (patient) classification, machine learning, queue theory, the employed research methods, solution methods, and the type of objective functions. The paper begins first to define what the “humanitarian” ecosystem may include, and which actors play important roles. After, certain critical views of the humanitarian relief supply chain are examined. The critical views of the humanitarian relief supply chain would help researchers to introduce further research orientations and areas to overcome crises in the real world. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
32 - Complete / Incomplete Hierarchical Hub Center Single Assignment Network Problem
Alireza Arshadi Khamseh Mohammad Doost MohamadiIn this paper we present the problem of designing a three level hub center network. In our network, the top level consists of a complete network where a direct link is between all central hubs. The second and third levels consist of star networks that connect the hubs t MoreIn this paper we present the problem of designing a three level hub center network. In our network, the top level consists of a complete network where a direct link is between all central hubs. The second and third levels consist of star networks that connect the hubs to central hubs and the demand nodes to hubs and thus to central hubs, respectively. We model this problem in an incomplete network environment. In this case, the top level is an incomplete network where the direct link between all central hubs is not necessary and may lead to lower transportation costs. We propose mixed integer programming model for these problems and conduct a computational study for these two developed models by using the CAB data. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
33 - Building a Multi-Objective Model for Multi-Product Multi-Period Production Planning with Controllable Processing Times: A Real Case Problem
Mir Bahadorgholi Aryanezhad Mehdi Karimi-Nasab Seyed Mohammad Taghi Fatemi GhomiModel building is a fragile and complex process especially in the context of real cases. Each real case problem has its own characteristics with new concepts and conditions. A correct model should have some essential characteristics such as: being compatible with real c MoreModel building is a fragile and complex process especially in the context of real cases. Each real case problem has its own characteristics with new concepts and conditions. A correct model should have some essential characteristics such as: being compatible with real conditions, being of sufficient accuracy, being logically traceable and etc. This paper discusses how to build an efficient model for a real case production planning problem. This process is reinforced by providing the proofs confirming the special characteristics of the final model such as proving its NP-Completeness. Also, the extremes of both objective functions – production smoothing versus cost minimizing – are calculated analytically. Finally, the case study and its solution methods are discussed briefly. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
34 - A Hybrid Meta-Heuristic Method to Optimize Bi-Objective Single Period Newsboy Problem with Fuzzy Cost and Incremental Discount
Ata Allah Taleizadeh Seyed Taghi Akhavan NiakiIn this paper the real-world occurrence of the multiple-product multiple-constraint single period newsboy problem with two objectives, in which there is incremental discounts on the purchasing prices, is investigated. The constraints are the warehouse capacity and the b MoreIn this paper the real-world occurrence of the multiple-product multiple-constraint single period newsboy problem with two objectives, in which there is incremental discounts on the purchasing prices, is investigated. The constraints are the warehouse capacity and the batch forms of the order placements. The first objective of this problem is to find the order quantities such that the expected profit is maximized and the second objective is maximizing the service rate. It is assumed that holding and shortage costs, modeled by a quadratic function, occur at the end of the period, and that the decision variables are integer. A formulation to the problem is presented and shown to be an integer nonlinear programming model. Finally, an efficient hybrid algorithm of harmony search, goal programming, and fuzzy simulation is provided to solve the model. The results are illustrated by a numerical example. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
35 - Bayesian Estimation of Shift Point in Shape Parameter of Inverse Gaussian Distribution Under Different Loss Functions
Mohammad Saber Fallah Nezhad Batul RastiIn this paper, a Bayesian approach is proposed for shift point detection in an inverse Gaussian distribution. In this study, the mean parameter of inverse Gaussian distribution is assumed to be constant and shift points in shape parameter is considered. First the poster MoreIn this paper, a Bayesian approach is proposed for shift point detection in an inverse Gaussian distribution. In this study, the mean parameter of inverse Gaussian distribution is assumed to be constant and shift points in shape parameter is considered. First the posterior distribution of shape parameter is obtained. Then the Bayes estimators are derived under a class of priors and using various loss functions. We assumed uniform, Jeffreys, exponential, gamma and chi square distributions as prior distributions. The squared error loss function (SELF), entropy loss function (ELF), linex loss function (LLF) and precautionary loss function (PLF), are used as loss functions. We attempt to find out the best estimator for shift point under various priors and loss functions. The proposed Bayesian approach can be adapted to any similar problem for shift point detection. Simulation studies were done to investigate the performance of different loss functions. The results of simulation study denote that the Jeffrey prior distribution under PLF has the most accurate estimation of shift point for sample size of 20, and the gamma prior distribution under SELF has the most accurate estimation of shift point for sample size of 50. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
36 - An Efficient Extension of Network Simplex Algorithm
Hassan Rashidi Edward P.K TsangIn this paper, an efficient extension of network simplex algorithm is presented. In static scheduling problem, where there is no change in situation, the challenge is that the large problems can be solved in a short time. In this paper, the Static Scheduling problem of MoreIn this paper, an efficient extension of network simplex algorithm is presented. In static scheduling problem, where there is no change in situation, the challenge is that the large problems can be solved in a short time. In this paper, the Static Scheduling problem of Automated Guided Vehicles in container terminal is solved by Network Simplex Algorithm (NSA) and NSA+, which extended the standard NSA. The algorithms are based on graph model and their performances are at least 100 times faster than traditional simplex algorithm for Linear Programs. Many random data are generated and fed to the model for 50 vehicles. We compared results of NSA and NSA+ for the static automated vehicle scheduling problem. The results show that NSA+ is significantly more efficient than NSA. It is found that, in practice, NSA and NSA+ take polynomial time to solve problems in this application. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
37 - A New Fuzzy Stabilizer Based on Online Learning Algorithm for Damping of Low-Frequency Oscillations
Ali Ghasemi Mohammad Javad Golkar Mohammad EslamiA multi objective Honey Bee Mating Optimization (HBMO) designed by online learning mechanism is proposed in this paper to optimize the double Fuzzy-Lead-Lag (FLL) stabilizer parameters in order to improve low-frequency oscillations in a multi machine power system. The p MoreA multi objective Honey Bee Mating Optimization (HBMO) designed by online learning mechanism is proposed in this paper to optimize the double Fuzzy-Lead-Lag (FLL) stabilizer parameters in order to improve low-frequency oscillations in a multi machine power system. The proposed double FLL stabilizer consists of a low pass filter and two fuzzy logic controllers whose parameters can be set by the proposed multi objective optimization process. A multilayer adaptive network is employed to design the fuzzy logic controller with self-learning capability that does not require another controller to tune the fuzzy inference rules and membership functions. In the proposed online learning algorithm, two artificial neural networks are employed which this system makes the FLL stabilizer adaptive to changes in the operating conditions. Therefore, variation in the power system response, under a wide range of operating conditions, is less compared to the system response with a fixed-parameter conventional controller. The effectiveness of the proposed stabilizer has been employed by simulation studies. The effectiveness of the proposed stabilizer is demonstrated on Two-Area Four-Machine (TAFM) power system under different loading conditions. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
38 - Developing a Multi-objective Mathematical Model for Dynamic Cellular Manufacturing Systems
Mohammad Saidi-Mehrabad Seyedeh Maryam Mirnezami-ziabariThis paper is in search of designing the cellular manufacturing systems (CMSs) under dynamic and flexible environment. CM is proper for small-to-medium lot production environment that helps the companies to produce variable kind of productions with at least scraps. The MoreThis paper is in search of designing the cellular manufacturing systems (CMSs) under dynamic and flexible environment. CM is proper for small-to-medium lot production environment that helps the companies to produce variable kind of productions with at least scraps. The most important benefits of CM are decline in material handling, reduction in work-in-process, reduction in set-up time, increment in flexibility, improved quality, and shorter lead time. In this research A multi-objective mixed integer model is presented that considers some real-world critical conditions same as costs of multi-period cell formation and production planning , human resource assignment to cells and balancing workload of cells. This model groups the parts and machines concurrently with labor assignment This study aims to 1) minimize various costs including reassignment cost of human resource, the batch inter-cell material handling cost, constant and variable cost of machines, relocation and purchase cost of machines, 2) minimize cell load variation and 3) maximize utilization rate of human resource. The model is complicate, so it is verified with Lingo 8. 0. Soft ware. Since particle swarm optimization approach less than many other metaheuristic approaches have been applied to solve multi-objective CMS problems so far, we utilize this method to solve our model. The results are presented at the last part. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
39 - A New Hybrid Parallel Simulated Annealing Algorithm for Travelling Salesman Problem with Multiple Transporters
parham azimi Ramtin Rooeinfar Hani PourvaziriIn today’s competitive transportation systems, passengers search to find traveling agencies that are able to serve them efficiently considering both traveling time and transportation costs. In this paper, we present a new model for the traveling salesman problem w MoreIn today’s competitive transportation systems, passengers search to find traveling agencies that are able to serve them efficiently considering both traveling time and transportation costs. In this paper, we present a new model for the traveling salesman problem with multiple transporters (TSPMT). In the proposed model, which is more applicable than the traditional versions, each city has different transporting vehicles and the cost of travel through each city is dependent on the transporting vehicles type. The aim is to determine an optimal sequence of visited cities with minimum traveling times by available transporting vehicles within a limited budget. First, the mathematical model of TSPMT is presented. Next, since the problem is NP-hard, a new hybrid parallel simulated annealing algorithm with a new coding scheme is proposed. To analyze the performance of the proposed algorithm, 50 numerical examples with different budget types are examined and solved using the algorithm. The computational results of these comparisons show that the algorithm is an excellent approach in speed and solution quality. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
40 - Process Capability Analysis in the Presence of Autocorrelation
Mohsen Mohamadi Mehdi Foumani Babak AbbasiThe classical method of process capability analysis necessarily assumes that collected data are independent; nonetheless, some processes such as biological and chemical processes are autocorrelated and violate the independency assumption. Many processes exhibit a certai MoreThe classical method of process capability analysis necessarily assumes that collected data are independent; nonetheless, some processes such as biological and chemical processes are autocorrelated and violate the independency assumption. Many processes exhibit a certain degree of correlation and can be treated by autoregressive models, among which the autoregressive model of order one (AR (1)) is the most frequently used one. In this paper, we discuss the effect of autocorrelation on the process capability analysis when a set of observations are produced by an autoregressive model of order one. We employ a multivariate regression model to modify the process capability estimated from the classical method, where the AR (1) parameters are utilized as regression explanatory variables. Finally, the performance of the presented method is investigated using a Monte Carlo simulation. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
41 - A Review and Evaluation of Statistical Process Control Methods inMonitoring Process Mean and Variance Simultaneously
Ahmad Ostadsharifmemar Seyed Taghi Akhavan NiakiIn this paper, first the available single charting methods, which have been proposed to detect simultaneous shifts in a single process mean and variance, are reviewed. Then, by designing proper simulation studies these methods are evaluated in terms of in-control and ou MoreIn this paper, first the available single charting methods, which have been proposed to detect simultaneous shifts in a single process mean and variance, are reviewed. Then, by designing proper simulation studies these methods are evaluated in terms of in-control and out-ofcontrol average run length criteria (ARL). The results of these simulation experiments show that the EWMA and EWMS methods are quite capable to detect large shifts in the means and variances. However, while the two EWMV procedures under study do not perform well, the Max-Min EWMA and Max-EWMA perform very well in all scenarios of mean and variance shifts. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
42 - Making Optimal Decisions of Assembly Products in Supply Chain
Yong Luo Shuwei ChenThe strategic pricing decisions of assembly products in assembly products supply chain are studied in this paper. Firstly, a two-stage assembly products supply chain model is developed. By building Nash game model, the Nash equilibrium solution of pricing strategy of su MoreThe strategic pricing decisions of assembly products in assembly products supply chain are studied in this paper. Firstly, a two-stage assembly products supply chain model is developed. By building Nash game model, the Nash equilibrium solution of pricing strategy of supplier and assemblers is obtained. Next, a union decision model is built to analyze the optimal combination pricing strategy of assembly products, and the relationship between the optimal strategies is established. The law of the changing in combination pricing strategy, assemblers’ profits and supplier’s profit along with the variety of some characteristics has been investigated by using numerical simulation. The results are consistent with economics principles. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
43 - Ant Colony Optimization for Multi-objective Digital Convergent Product Network
Convergent product is an assembly shape concept integrating functions and sub-functions to form a final product. To conceptualize the convergent product problem, a web-based network is considered in which a collection of base functions and sub-functions configure the no MoreConvergent product is an assembly shape concept integrating functions and sub-functions to form a final product. To conceptualize the convergent product problem, a web-based network is considered in which a collection of base functions and sub-functions configure the nodes and each arc in the network is considered to be a link between two nodes. The aim is to find an optimal tree of functionalities in the network adding value to the product in the web environment. First, an algorithm is proposed to assign the links among bases and sub-functions. Then, numerical values as benefits and costs are determined for arcs and nodes, respectively, using a mathematical approach. Also, customer’s value corresponding to the benefits is considered. Finally, the Steiner tree methodology is adapted to a multi-objective model optimized by an ant colony optimization method. The approach is applicable for all digital products, such as mobile, tablet, laptop, etc. An example is worked out to illustrate the proposed approach. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
44 - Mobile Robot Online Motion Planning Using Generalized Voronoi Graphs
elips masehian amin NaseriIn this paper, a new online robot motion planner is developed for systematically exploring unknown environ¬ments by intelligent mobile robots in real-time applications. The algorithm takes advantage of sensory data to find an obstacle-free start-to-goal path. It does s MoreIn this paper, a new online robot motion planner is developed for systematically exploring unknown environ¬ments by intelligent mobile robots in real-time applications. The algorithm takes advantage of sensory data to find an obstacle-free start-to-goal path. It does so by online calculation of the Generalized Voronoi Graph (GVG) of the free space, and utilizing a combination of depth-first and breadth-first searches on the GVG. The planner is equipped with components such as step generation and correction, backtracking, and loop handling. It is fast, simple, complete, and extendable to higher spaces. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
45 - Designing a Marketing Strategy for the Development of Industrial Tourism in the Region
Bohdan Danylyshyn Oleksandra Olshanska Yuliia Zabaldina Roman Mazurets Sergii Khlopiak Liliia PivnovaThe article is devoted to the study of the process of development of regions as a promising area of industrial tourism. The authors researched the marketing strategies of industrial tourism, studied, proposed an algorithm for selecting a marketing strategy for the devel MoreThe article is devoted to the study of the process of development of regions as a promising area of industrial tourism. The authors researched the marketing strategies of industrial tourism, studied, proposed an algorithm for selecting a marketing strategy for the development of industrial tourism and the concept of developing a marketing strategy for the development of industrial tourism. They also proposed a scientific and methodological approach to assessing the attractiveness of investments in the region for the development of industrial tourism and tested its practical effectiveness at 10 enterprises. Developed a mechanism for implementing a marketing strategy for industrial tourism, which is the basis for establishing the structure and composition, goals, objectives, principles, functions, methods, means of implementing a marketing strategy for industrial tourism, as well as for significant activities at national, regional and local levels of promotion of industrial tourism and industrial tourism infrastructure. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
46 - Absorbing Markov Chain Models to Determine Optimum Process Target Levels in Production Systems with Rework and Scrapping
Mohammad Saber Fallah Nezhad Seyed Taghi Akhavan NiakiIn this paper, absorbing Markov chain models are developed to determine the optimum process mean levels for both a single-stage and a serial two-stage production system in which items are inspected for conformity with their specification limits. When the value of the qu MoreIn this paper, absorbing Markov chain models are developed to determine the optimum process mean levels for both a single-stage and a serial two-stage production system in which items are inspected for conformity with their specification limits. When the value of the quality characteristic of an item falls below a lower limit, the item is scrapped. If it falls above an upper limit, the item is reworked. Otherwise, the item passes the inspection. This flow of material through the production system can be modeled in an absorbing Markov chain characterizing the uncertainty due to scrapping and reworking. Numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the application of the proposed model. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
47 - An Inexact-Fuzzy-Stochastic Optimization Model for a Closed Loop Supply Chain Network Design Problem
Behnam Vahdani Mani SharifiThe development of optimization and mathematical models for closed loop supply chain (CLSC) design has attracted considerable interest over the past decades. However, the uncertainties that are inherent in the network design and the complex interactions among various un MoreThe development of optimization and mathematical models for closed loop supply chain (CLSC) design has attracted considerable interest over the past decades. However, the uncertainties that are inherent in the network design and the complex interactions among various uncertain parameters are challenging the capabilities of the developed tools. The aim of this paper, therefore, is to propose a new mathematical model for designing a CLSC network that integrates the network design decisions in both forward and reverse supply chain networks. Moreover, another objective of this research is to introduce an inexact-fuzzy-stochastic solution methodology to deal with various uncertainties in the proposed model. Computational experiments are provided to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed model in the CLSC network design. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
48 - A Comparison of the REMBRANDT System with a New Approach inAHP
Mahmoud Modiri Mir Bahadorgholi Aryanezhad Hamed MalekiAnalytic hierarchy process (AHP) has been criticized considerably for possible rank reversal phenomenon caused by the addition or deletion of an alternative. While in many cases this is a perfectly valid phenomenon, there are also many cases where ranks should be preser MoreAnalytic hierarchy process (AHP) has been criticized considerably for possible rank reversal phenomenon caused by the addition or deletion of an alternative. While in many cases this is a perfectly valid phenomenon, there are also many cases where ranks should be preserved. Our findings indicate that using the geometric mean reduces the variance in ratings substantially; hence, yielding lower inconsistency in ratings. An approach is therefore proposed using the geometric mean aggregation to avoid rank reversal phenomenon. A practical example is examined using the proposed approach to demonstrate its validity and racticability in rank preservation. This paper also compares the REMBRANDT system with the proposed approach to avoid rank reversal phenomenon. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
49 - Sequencing Mixed Model Assembly Line Problem to Minimize Line Stoppages Cost by a Modified Simulated Annealing Algorithm Based on Cloud Theory
Zaman Zamami Amlashi Mostafa ZandiehThis research presents a new application of the cloud theory-based simulated annealing algorithm to solve mixed model assembly line sequencing problems where line stoppage cost is expected to be optimized. This objective is highly significant in mixed model assembly lin MoreThis research presents a new application of the cloud theory-based simulated annealing algorithm to solve mixed model assembly line sequencing problems where line stoppage cost is expected to be optimized. This objective is highly significant in mixed model assembly line sequencing problems based on just-in-time production system. Moreover, this type of problem is NP-hard and solving this problem through some classical approaches such as total enumeration or exact mathematical procedures such as dynamic programming is computationally prohibitive. Therefore, we proposed the cloud theory-based simulated annealing algorithm (CSA) to address it. Previous researches indicates that evolutionary algorithms especially simulated annealing (SA) is an appropriate method to solve this problem; so we compared CSA with SA in this study to validate the proposed CSA algorithm. Experimentation shows that the CSA approach outperforms the SA approach in both CPU time and objective function especially in large size problems. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
50 - Scheduling in Container Terminals using NetworkSimplex Algorithm
Hassan RashidiIn static scheduling problem, where there is no change in situation, the challenge is that the large problems can be solved in a short time. In this paper, the Static Scheduling problem of Automated Guided Vehicles in container terminal is solved by the Network Simplex MoreIn static scheduling problem, where there is no change in situation, the challenge is that the large problems can be solved in a short time. In this paper, the Static Scheduling problem of Automated Guided Vehicles in container terminal is solved by the Network Simplex Algorithm (NSA). The algorithm is based on graph model and their performances are at least 100 times faster than traditional simplex algorithm for Linear Programs. Many random data are generated and fed to the model for 50 vehicles. The results show that NSA is fast and efficient. It is found that, in practice, NSA takes polynomial time to solve problems in this application. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
51 - Enhanced Prudential Standards Under Basel Iii: What Consequences For The Profitability Of Banks
Selma Haj Khlifa Amal ZakiSince the subprime financial crisis, international financial regulatory institutions (Basel, MIFID, Dodd-Frank), have strengthened regulatory requirements on systemically important banks. The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, and based on the G20 recommendations, MoreSince the subprime financial crisis, international financial regulatory institutions (Basel, MIFID, Dodd-Frank), have strengthened regulatory requirements on systemically important banks. The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, and based on the G20 recommendations, has drawn up a reform program to reconfigure the banking system, based mainly on increasing the capital requirement. The program has caused strong resistance from the banking industry leaders, saying that an excessive increase in regulatory capital will lead to an increase in the cost of financing of banks, which will have a negative impact on their profitability, and affect in fine the entire economic system. Due to the divergence of opinions regarding the impact of increasing capital requirements on the banking system, and the drastic lack of empirical literature on the Moroccan banking sector, we have decided to direct our research to fill this empirical deficiency. The main question we want to answer through our analytical approach, is how enhanced capital regulation would impact financial performance of the banking industry? Tio which extent this impact could be alleviated through risk management policies? To do so, and based on the empirical literature on this topic, we have conducted an analytical study, through Mathematical Modeling Analysis to compute the impact of the implementation of reinforced capital regulations on the profitability of banks.The goal of this article is to present the results of the impact analysis on the profitability of Moroccan banks using regression model applied to panel data, covering the 2010-2017 time period. The relevance of this study is derived from the several reforms applied to regulation of capital in the worldwide banking industry during the post-financial crisis period, including Morocco. In Morocco, Bank Al Maghrib, the regulator of banks, introduced reforms in the regulation of capital, through circular 14 / G / 2014 and circular 1 / W / 2016, modifying and strengthening the solvency ratios. This article presents the results of an impact study conducted based on the Panel's Multiple Data Regression Model and applied to 6 Moroccan banks during the post-financial crisis period, i.e., 2010-2017. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
52 - Multimodal Transportation p-hub Location Routing Problem with Simultaneous Pick-ups and Deliveries
Saeed Zameni Jafar RazmiCentralizing and using proper transportation facilities cut down costs and traffic. Hub facilities concentrate on flows to cause economic advantage of scale and multimodal transportation helps use the advantage of another transporter. A distinctive feature of this paper MoreCentralizing and using proper transportation facilities cut down costs and traffic. Hub facilities concentrate on flows to cause economic advantage of scale and multimodal transportation helps use the advantage of another transporter. A distinctive feature of this paper is proposing a new mathematical formulation for a three-stage p-hub location routing problem with simultaneous pick-ups and deliveries on time. A few studies have been devoted to this problem; however, many people are still suffering from the problems of commuting in crowded cities. The proposed formulation controlled the tumult of each node by indirect fixed cost. Node-to-node traveling cost was followed by a vehicle routing problem between nodes of each hub. A couple of datasets were solved for small and medium scales by GAMS software. But, for large-scale instances, a meta-heuristic algorithm was proposed. To validate the model, datasets were used and the results demonstrated the performance suitability of the proposed algorithm. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
53 - Multiple Batch Sizing through Batch Size Smoothing
Mir bahadorgholi Aryanezhad Mehdi Karimi nasab Sudabeh BakhshiBatch sizing in different planning period is categorized as a classical problem in production planning, that so many exact & heuristic methods have been proposed to solve this problem, each of which considering various aspects of the original problem. The solution obtai MoreBatch sizing in different planning period is categorized as a classical problem in production planning, that so many exact & heuristic methods have been proposed to solve this problem, each of which considering various aspects of the original problem. The solution obtained from majority – e.g. MRP – is in this format that there may be some periods of idleness or each period should produce as needed in different adjacent periods. If there are more the one final independent product to be produced in a factory, this makes the production planning experience strong variations in batch sizes for different periods, which production managers are opposed to these proposed production plans. In this paper, some of the models are proposed to solve this shortcoming of the production plan to smooth the variation of batch sizes and consequently to meet the managers ideal. Finally all of the proposed models are used in a real case problem and the best model is introduced in that case. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
54 - Study and Implementation of Lean Manufacturing in a Garment Manufacturing Company: Bangladesh Perspective
Ripon Kumar Chakrabortty Sanjoy Kumar PaulLean manufacturing is a systematic approach to identifying and eliminating wastes (non-value added activities) through continuous improvement by conveying the product at the pull of the customer in pursuit of production. In a more basic term, more value with less work. MoreLean manufacturing is a systematic approach to identifying and eliminating wastes (non-value added activities) through continuous improvement by conveying the product at the pull of the customer in pursuit of production. In a more basic term, more value with less work. Since lean manufacturing eliminates many of the problems associated with poor production scheduling and line balancing, lean manufacturing is particularly appropriate for companies that do not have ERP systems in place or do not have strong material requirements planning (MRP), production scheduling, or production allocation systems in place. This is particularly significant in Bangladesh, where many private Bangladeshi garment manufacturing companies are operating significantly below their potential capacity, or experiencing a high level of late-deliveries, due to problems with their current production scheduling and production management systems. Considering all those facts this paper provides a roadmap as well as a framework to those manufacturing companies who are really operating significantly below their potential capacity. In this work, the existing layouts were studied and then layouts are proposed to enhance the production system and value stream mapping (VSM) is used as a basic lean manufacturing tool and some cellular manufacturing philosophies to find out the improved level of performance and productivity particularly in the garments section of Bangladesh. At the final stage, research work is reinforced by using a simulation software ARENA to judge the sustainability of proposal. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
55 - A Neural Network Model Based on Support Vector Machine for Conceptual Cost Estimation in Construction Projects
Behnam Vahdani Seyed Meysam Mousavi Morteza Mousakhani Mani Sharifi Hassan HashemiEstimation of the conceptual costs in construction projects can be regarded as an important issue in feasibility studies. This estimation has amajor impact on the success of construction projects. Indeed, this estimation supports the required information that can be emp MoreEstimation of the conceptual costs in construction projects can be regarded as an important issue in feasibility studies. This estimation has amajor impact on the success of construction projects. Indeed, this estimation supports the required information that can be employed in costmanagement and budgeting of these projects. The purpose of this paper is to introduce an intelligent model to improve the conceptual costaccuracy during the early phases of the life cycle of projects in construction industry. A computationally efficient model, namely supportvector machine model, is developed to estimate the conceptual costs of construction projects. The proposed neural network model is trainedby a cross validation technique in order to produce the reliable estimations. To demonstrate the performance of the proposed model, twopowerful intelligent techniques, namely nonlinear regression and back-propagation neural networks (BPNNs), are provided. Their resultsare compared on the basis of the available dataset from the related literature in construction industry. The computational results illustratethat the presented intelligent model performs better than the other two powerful techniques. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
56 - Comparing Parallel Simulated Annealing, Parallel Vibrating Damp Optimization and Genetic Algorithm for Joint Redundancy-Availability Problems in a Series-Parallel System with Multi-State Components
Mani Sharifi Morteza Mousa Khani Arash ZaretalabIn this paper, we study different methods of solving joint redundancy-availability optimization for series-parallel systems with multi-state components. We analyzed various effective factors on system availability in order to determine the optimum number and version of MoreIn this paper, we study different methods of solving joint redundancy-availability optimization for series-parallel systems with multi-state components. We analyzed various effective factors on system availability in order to determine the optimum number and version of components in each sub-system and consider the effects of improving failure rates of each component in each sub-system and improving reliability of each sub-system. The target is to determine optimum values of all variables for improving the availability level and decreasing the total cost of the system. At first, the exact values of variables are determined using a mathematical model; then, the results of SA-Parallel, VDO-Parallel and genetic algorithms are compared with the exact solution. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
57 - Sensitivity Analysis of Simple Additive Weighting Method (SAW): The Results of Change in the Weight of One Attribute on the Final Ranking of Alternatives
Azizollah Memariani Abbas Amini Alireza AlinezhadMost of data in a multi-attribute decision making (MADM) problem are unstable and changeable, then sensitivity analysis after problem solving can effectively contribute to making accurate decisions. This paper provides a new method for sensitivity analysis of MADM probl MoreMost of data in a multi-attribute decision making (MADM) problem are unstable and changeable, then sensitivity analysis after problem solving can effectively contribute to making accurate decisions. This paper provides a new method for sensitivity analysis of MADM problems so that by using it and changing the weights of attributes, one can determine changes in the final results of a decision making problem. This analysis applied for SAW technique, one of the most used multi-attribute decision making techniques, and the formulas are obtained. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
58 - Designing Stochastic Cell Formation Problem Using Queuing Theory
Parviz fattahi Bahman Esmailnezhad Amir Saman KheirkhahThis paper presents a new nonlinear mathematical model to solve a cell formation problem which assumes that processing time and inter-arrival time of parts are random variables. In this research, cells are defined as a queue system which will be optimized via queuing th MoreThis paper presents a new nonlinear mathematical model to solve a cell formation problem which assumes that processing time and inter-arrival time of parts are random variables. In this research, cells are defined as a queue system which will be optimized via queuing theory. In this queue system, each machine isassumed as a server and each part asa customer. The grouping of machines and parts are optimized based on the mean waiting time. For solving exactly, the proposed model is linearized. Since the cell formation problem is NP-Hard, two algorithms based on genetic and modified particle swarm optimization (MPSO) algorithms are developed to solve the problem. For generating of initial solutions in these algorithms, a new heuristic method is developed, which always creates feasible solutions. Also, full factorial and Taguchi methods are used to set the crucial parameters in the solutions procedures. Numerical experiments are used to evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithms. The results of the study show that the proposed algorithms are capable of generating better quality solutions in much less time. Finally, a statistical method is used which confirmed that the MPSO algorithm generates higher quality solutions in comparison with the genetic algorithm (GA). Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
59 - A Multi Objective Fibonacci Search Based Algorithm for Resource Allocation in PERT Networks
Behrouz Afshar Nadjafi Salman KolyaeiThe problem we investigate deals with the optimal assignment of resources to the activities of a stochastic project network. We seek to minimize the expected cost of the project include sum of resource utilization costs and lateness costs. We assume that the work conten MoreThe problem we investigate deals with the optimal assignment of resources to the activities of a stochastic project network. We seek to minimize the expected cost of the project include sum of resource utilization costs and lateness costs. We assume that the work content required by the activities follows an exponential distribution. The decision variables of the model are the allocated resource quantities. We construct a continuous time Markov chain model for the activity network and use the PhaseType distribution to evaluate the project completion time. Then we use Fibonacci search over the interval of permissible allocations to the activity to seek the minimum expected cost. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
60 - A Bi-objective Pre-emption Multi-mode Resource Constrained Project Scheduling Problem with due Dates in the Activities
zahra Sadat Hosseini Javad Hassan pour Emad RoghanianIn this paper, a novel mathematical model for a preemption multi-mode multi-objective resource-constrained project scheduling problem with distinct due dates and positive and negative cash flows is presented. Although optimization of bi-objective problems with due dates MoreIn this paper, a novel mathematical model for a preemption multi-mode multi-objective resource-constrained project scheduling problem with distinct due dates and positive and negative cash flows is presented. Although optimization of bi-objective problems with due dates is an essential feature of real projects, little effort has been made in studying the P-MMRCPSP while due dates are included in the activities. This paper tries to bridge this gap by studying tardiness MMRCPSP, in which the objective is to minimize total weighted tardiness and to maximize the net present value (NPV). In order to solve the given problem, we introduced a Non-dominated Ranking Genetic Algorithm (NRGA) and Non-Dominated Sort Genetic Algorithm (NSGA-II). Since the effectiveness of most meta-heuristic algorithms significantly depends on choosing the proper parameters. A Taguchi experimental design method was applied to set and estimate the proper values of GAs parameters for improving their performances. To prove the efficiency of our proposed meta-heuristic algorithms, a number of test problems taken from the project scheduling problem library (PSPLIB) were solved. The computational results show that the proposed NSGA-II outperforms the NRGA. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
61 - Using Markov Chain to Analyze Production Lines Systems withLayout Constraints
sadegh Abedi morteza mousakhani naser hamidiThere are some problems with estimating the time required for the manufacturing process of products, especially when there is a variable serving time, like control stage. These problems will cause overestimation of process time. Layout constraints, reworking constraints MoreThere are some problems with estimating the time required for the manufacturing process of products, especially when there is a variable serving time, like control stage. These problems will cause overestimation of process time. Layout constraints, reworking constraints and inflexible product schedule in multi product lines need a precise planning to reduce volume in particular situation of line stock. In this article, a hybrid model has been presented by analyzing real queue systems with layout constraints as well as by using concepts and principles of Markov chain in queue theory. This model can serve as benchmark to assess queue systems with probable parameters of service. Here, the proposed model will be described drawing on the findings of a case study. Thus, production lines of a home application manufacturer will be analyzed. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
62 - Dynamic Load Carrying Capacity of Flexible Manipulators Using Finite Element Method and Pontryagin’s Minimum Principle
Moharam Korayem Mostafa Nazemizadeh Hamed Rahimi nahoojiIn this paper, finding Dynamic Load Carrying Capacity (DLCC) of flexible link manipulators in point to-point motion was formulated as an optimal control problem. The finite element method was employed for modelling and deriving the dynamic equations of the system. The s MoreIn this paper, finding Dynamic Load Carrying Capacity (DLCC) of flexible link manipulators in point to-point motion was formulated as an optimal control problem. The finite element method was employed for modelling and deriving the dynamic equations of the system. The study employed indirect solution of optimal control for system motion planning. Due to offline nature of the method, many difficulties such system nonlinearities and all types of constraints can be catered for and implemented easily. The application of Pontryagin’s minimum principle to this problem was resulted in a standard two-point boundary value problem (TPBVP), solved numerically. Then, the formulation was developed to find the maximum payload and corresponding optimal path. The main advantage of the proposed method is that the various optimal trajectories can be obtained with different characteristics and different maximum payloads. Therefore, the designer can select a suitable path among the numerous optimal paths. In order to verify the effectiveness of the method, a simulation study considering a two-link flexible manipulator was presented in details. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
63 - A Simulated Annealing Algorithm for Multi Objective Flexible Job Shop Scheduling with Overlapping in Operations
Mehrzad Abdi Khalife Babak Abbasi Amirhossein Kamali Dolat abadiIn this paper, we considered solving approaches to flexible job shop problems. Makespan is not a good evaluation criterion with overlapping in operations assumption. Accordingly, in addition to makespan, we used total machine work loading time and critical machine work MoreIn this paper, we considered solving approaches to flexible job shop problems. Makespan is not a good evaluation criterion with overlapping in operations assumption. Accordingly, in addition to makespan, we used total machine work loading time and critical machine work loading time as evaluation criteria. As overlapping in operations is a practical assumption in chemical, petrochemical, and glass industries, we used simulated annealing algorithm for multi-objective flexible job shop scheduling problem with overlapping in operations to find a suitable solution. To evaluate performance of the algorithm, we developed a mixed integer linear programming model, and solved it with the classical method (branch and bound). The results showed that in small size problems, the solutions of the proposed algorithm and the mathematical model were so close, and in medium size problems, they only had lower and upper bounds of solution and our proposed algorithm had a suitable solution. We used an experimental design for improving the proposed algorithm. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
64 - Social Networks as a Phenomenon of the Information Society
Anastasiia Bessarab Olha Mitchuk Anna Baranetska Natalia Kodatska Olha Kvasnytsia Galyna MykytivSocial networks, which emerged due to the rapid development of modern telecommunications and information technologies that led to the emergence of the Internet, can be viewed as a phenomenon of the information society. In a short time, there has been both quantitative a MoreSocial networks, which emerged due to the rapid development of modern telecommunications and information technologies that led to the emergence of the Internet, can be viewed as a phenomenon of the information society. In a short time, there has been both quantitative and qualitative growth of social networks, which have become a common phenomenon in our life and the dominant way of communication of social groups in the Internet space. The article tells about the history of the emergence and development of social networks, presents a classification following their primary functionality, discloses and gives characteristics to the main opportunities that they provide to the information society. The article analyzes and compiles a popularity rating (by the number of active users) of social networks in the world and Ukraine, analyzes the motives of users visiting social networks in Ukraine and examines the main age groups by the activity of using social networks, and analyzes the development and causes of failures of Ukrainian social networks. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
65 - Fuzzy Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm for a Supplier ClusteringProblem
esmaeil Mehdizadeh reza Tavakkoli MoghaddamThis paper presents a fuzzy decision-making approach to deal with a clustering supplier problem in a supply chain system. During recent years, determining suitable suppliers in the supply chain has become a key strategic consideration. However, the nature of these decis MoreThis paper presents a fuzzy decision-making approach to deal with a clustering supplier problem in a supply chain system. During recent years, determining suitable suppliers in the supply chain has become a key strategic consideration. However, the nature of these decisions is usually complex and unstructured. In general, many quantitative and qualitative factors, such as quality, price, and flexibility and delivery performance, must be considered to determine suitable suppliers. The aim of this study is to present a new approach using particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm for clustering suppliers under fuzzy environments and classifying smaller groups with similar characteristics. Our numerical analysis indicates that the proposed PSO improves the performance of the fuzzy c-means (FCM) algorithm. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
66 - Neurological Analysis of Consumer Behavior in Shopping Malls Using EEG
Mahmoud Samadi Mohammad Mahdi Mozaffari Jafar ShaghaghiToday, shopping centers go beyond purchasing based behavior. As intangible variables, effective social factors also affect consumer behavior. These variables cannot always lead to purchasing but create a potential customer who is exactly exposed to promotional incentive MoreToday, shopping centers go beyond purchasing based behavior. As intangible variables, effective social factors also affect consumer behavior. These variables cannot always lead to purchasing but create a potential customer who is exactly exposed to promotional incentives. It should be noted that identifying these intangible factors can only be extracted through non-self-reporting methods. Thus, the use of neuroscience techniques can be a necessity. This study was an exploratory research that applied electroencephalographic tools to record brain signals through EPOC+ 14-Electrode Wireless EEG device. The signals were cleared using EEGLAB Software through ASR Method. The population consisted of two groups of three people (control and experimental group). The seven elements of the shopping centers proposed by Arpita Jare were used to provide stimulus. Thermal map analysis for F3 and F7 electrodes and correlation between the seven elements and brain waves showed that control group had a significant behavior in comparison to experimental group due to their interest in shopping centers (P-Value <.05). Results showed that consumer behavior in shopping centers is not affected by tangible factors such as product brand but social and cultural interactions and intangible elements are also effective that are hidden from marketers and designers’ view. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
67 - A Simulation Model for Optimization of the Internal Handling Fleet Size at Shahid Rajaee Container Port Based on Performance Evaluation
Parham Azimi Mohammad Reza GhanbariThe dramatic increasing of sea-freight container transportations and the developing trend for using containers in the multimodal handling systems through the sea, rail, road and land in the present market cause some challenges to the general managers of container termin MoreThe dramatic increasing of sea-freight container transportations and the developing trend for using containers in the multimodal handling systems through the sea, rail, road and land in the present market cause some challenges to the general managers of container terminals such as increasing demand, competitive situation, new investments and expansion of new activities and the need to use new methods to fulfil effective operations both along quayside and within the yard. Among these issues, minimizing the turnaround time of vessels is considered to be the first aim of every container port system. Regarding the complex structure of container ports, this paper presents a simulation model that calculates the number of trucks needed in Shahid Rajaee Container Port for handling containers between the berth and the yard. In this research, some important criteria such as vessel turnaround time, gantry crane utilization and truck utilization have been considered. By analyzing the results of the model, it will be shown that increasing the number of trucks to 66 units has a significant effect on the performance indices of the port and can increase the capacity of loading and unloading up to 10.8%. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
68 - Traffic Flow Analysis Based on Queuing Models
Mohammad Modares Hossein Beheshti FakherOne of the most important issues in the plant layout design especially in mass production organizations with high inter-plant logistics is‘material flow and inter-plant traffic analysis and its effects on the production capabilities or pauses in production lines. In t MoreOne of the most important issues in the plant layout design especially in mass production organizations with high inter-plant logistics is‘material flow and inter-plant traffic analysis and its effects on the production capabilities or pauses in production lines. In this paper the inter-plant traffic analysis issue on the basis of single channel queue model (M/M/1) is analyzed in a carmaker company (IKCO). Through the analysis, the production stop rate and relevant costs are estimated. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
69 - Dynamic Cargo Trains Scheduling for Tackling Network Constraints and Costs Emanating from Tardiness and Earliness
This paper aims to develop a multi-objective model for scheduling cargo trains faced by the costs of tardiness and earliness, time limitations, queue priority and limited station lines. Based upon the Islamic Republic of Iran Railway Corporation (IRIRC) regulations, pas MoreThis paper aims to develop a multi-objective model for scheduling cargo trains faced by the costs of tardiness and earliness, time limitations, queue priority and limited station lines. Based upon the Islamic Republic of Iran Railway Corporation (IRIRC) regulations, passenger trains enjoy priority over other trains for departure. Therefore, the timetable of cargo trains must be determined based on certain passenger trains. In addition, the introduced model considers extra platforms in each station through the travel route. This model has been run in IRIRC and the results have illustrated a great improvement in comparison to status quo. The model has been verified and validated against the real system by conducting t-tests. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis of the model reveals a set of optimization alternatives for scheduling cargo trains. Reduced routing traffic, optimum number of cargo trains, enhanced customer lead times, maximum trains capacity are retrieved from the model in order to obtain an integrated scheduling for cargo and passenger trains. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
70 - Meta heuristic for Minimizing Makespan in a Flow-line Manufacturing Cell with Sequence Dependent Family Setup Times
Behzad Nikjo Javad RezaeianThis paper presents a new mathematical model for the problem of scheduling part families and jobs within each part family in a flow line manufacturing cell where the setup times for each family are sequence dependent and it is desired to minimize the maximum completion MoreThis paper presents a new mathematical model for the problem of scheduling part families and jobs within each part family in a flow line manufacturing cell where the setup times for each family are sequence dependent and it is desired to minimize the maximum completion time of the last job on the last machine (makespan) while processing parts (jobs) in each family together. Gaining an optimal solution for this type of complex problem in large sizes in reasonable computational time using traditional approaches or optimization tools is extremely difficult. A meta-heuristic method based on Simulated Annealing (SA) is proposed to solve the presented model. Based on the computational analyses, the proposed algorithm was found efficient and effective at finding good quality solutions. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
71 - Developing a Permutation Method Using Tabu Search Algorithm: A Case Study of Ranking Some Countries of West Asia and North Africa Based on Important Development Criteria
Javad Rezaeian Keyvan Shokoufi Shahab PoursafaryThe recent years have witnessed an increasing attention to the methods of multiple attribute decision making in solving the problems of the real world due to their shorter time of calculation and easy application. One of these methods is the ‘permutation method&rs MoreThe recent years have witnessed an increasing attention to the methods of multiple attribute decision making in solving the problems of the real world due to their shorter time of calculation and easy application. One of these methods is the ‘permutation method’ which has a strong logic in connection with ranking issues, but when the number of alternatives increases, solving problems through this method becomes NP-hard. So, meta-heuristic algorithm based on Tabu search is used to find optimum or near optimum solutions at a reasonable computational time for large size problems. This research is an attempt to apply the ‘permutation method’ to rank some countries of the West Asia and the North Africa based on the development criteria. Knowing the situation of each country as compared with other countries, particularly the respective neighbouring countries, is one of the most important standards for the assessment of performance and planning for the future activities. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
72 - Sensitivity Analysis of TOPSIS Technique: The Results of Change in the Weight of One Attribute on the Final Ranking of Alternatives
Alireza Alinezhad Abbas AminiMost of data in Multi-attribute decision making (MADM) problems are changeable rather than constant and stable. Therefore, sensitivity analysis after problem solving can effectively contribute to making accurate decisions. In this paper, we offer a new method for sensit MoreMost of data in Multi-attribute decision making (MADM) problems are changeable rather than constant and stable. Therefore, sensitivity analysis after problem solving can effectively contribute to making accurate decisions. In this paper, we offer a new method for sensitivity analysis in multi-attribute decision making problems in which if the weights of one attribute changes, then we can determine changes in the results of the problem. These changes involve changes in the weight of other attributes and the change in the final rank of alternatives. This analysis was conducted for Technique for order-preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) technique, one of the most frequently used multi-attribute decision making techniques, and the formulas were obtained. The paper continues with a numerical example and at last conclusions and suggestions for future researches are offered. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
73 - Digital Competencies Of Teachers In The Transformation Of The Educational Environment
Olga Zabolotska Nataliia Zhyliak Nataliia Hevchuk Natalya Petrenko Oksana AliekoThe purpose of this study is to determine the main directions of development of digital competencies of teachers to ensure a quality educational process in the transformation of the educational environment. The relevance of this study is due to the need to determine the MoreThe purpose of this study is to determine the main directions of development of digital competencies of teachers to ensure a quality educational process in the transformation of the educational environment. The relevance of this study is due to the need to determine the main directions of development of the education system for adaptation in the context of digitalization of society. It is established thatthe transformation of the educational environment requires an increase in digital literacy and digital improvement competencies of teachers in terms of digitalization of the educational process. The effectiveness of the educational process with the use of digital technologies is based on digital competencies, which are now universal and provide participants in the educational process with adaptive mechanisms to the digitalization of society. The product of this study is the optimization of the model of digital competencies of the teacher, which establishes a single structure of digital and professional competencies based on the general theory of activity: "values - purpose (subject) - actions". The novelty of the study is determined by the fact that the paper uses the approach of identifying elements of digital competencies in the integrated application of pedagogical technologies. This approach allows us to identify levels of assessment of the conditions necessary for the construction of a digital educational process of vocational education and training. The authors show thatdigital technologies play a key role in the organization of the educational process, if you use them as a tool for collaboration, inclusion and involvement in the process of all participants, the personification of learning. Research has shown that the role of digital literacy for all participants in the learning process is growing significantly. Digital literacy, as a set of competencies, becomes the basis for the full participation in the knowledge society of the teacher personally and the involvement of their students, revealing their talents. The study was conducted on the example of Ukrainian educational institutions based on the results of the organization of the educational process during the quarantine period 2020. The assessment of the organization of the distance form of the educational process using digital tools and technologies in higher education institutions. The authors show thatlevel of skills and ability to use digital technologies in the organization of the educational process among research and teaching staff is quite mediocre, as less than half of respondents used such tools on a regular / regular basis. At the same time, a fairly high level of digital literacy of both teachers and students was revealed. According to the results, it is established that the problems of digitalization of the educational environment in Ukraine are systemic. Therefore, it is necessary to continue reforms of the education system, to implement specific measures to form a digital culture and philosophy of digitalization of the educational environment. Accordingly, the basis of such transformations is digital literacy and digital competencies of all participants. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
74 - Application of Rough Set Theory in Data Mining for Decision SupportSystems (DSSs)
Mohammad Hossein Fazel Zarandi Abolfazl KazemiDecision support systems (DSSs) are prevalent information systems for decision making in many competitive business environments. In a DSS, decision making process is intimately related to some factors which determine the quality of information systems and their relate MoreDecision support systems (DSSs) are prevalent information systems for decision making in many competitive business environments. In a DSS, decision making process is intimately related to some factors which determine the quality of information systems and their related products. Traditional approaches to data analysis usually cannot be implemented in sophisticated Companies, where managers need some DSS tools for rapid decision making. In traditional approaches to decision making, usually scientific expertise together with statistical techniques are needed to support the managers. However, these approaches are not able to handle the huge amount of real data, and the processes are usually very slow. Recently, several innovative facilities have been presented for decision making process in enterprises. Presenting new techniques for development of huge databases, together with some heuristic models have enhanced the capabilities of DSSs to support managers in all levels of organizations. Today, data mining and knowledge discovery is considered as the main module of development of advanced DSSs. In this research, we use rough set theory for data mining for decision making process in a DSS. The proposed approach concentrates on individual objects rather than population of the objects. Finally, a rule extracted from a data set and the corresponding features (attributes) is considered in modeling data mining. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
75 - Change Point Estimation of a Process Variance with a Linear TrendDisturbance
Rassoul Noorossana Majeed HeydariWhen a change occurs in a process, one expects to receive a signal from a control chart as quickly as possible. Upon the receipt of signal from the control chart a search for identifying the source of disturbance begins. However, searching for assignable cause around th MoreWhen a change occurs in a process, one expects to receive a signal from a control chart as quickly as possible. Upon the receipt of signal from the control chart a search for identifying the source of disturbance begins. However, searching for assignable cause around the signal time, due to the fact that the disturbance may have manifested itself into the rocess sometimes back, may not always lead to successful identification of assignable cause(s). If process engineers could identify the change point, i.e. the time when the disturbance first manifested itself into the process, then corrective actions could be directed towards effective elimination of the source of disturbance. In this paper we develop a maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) for process change point designed to detect changes in process variance of a normal quality characteristic when the change follows a linear trend. We describe how this estimator can be used to identify the change point when a Shewhart S-control chart signals a change in the process variance. Numerical results reveal that the proposed estimator outperforms the MLE designed for step change when a linear trend disturbance is present. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
76 - A New Approach in Job Shop Scheduling: Overlapping Operation
parviz Fattahi mohammad Saidi MehrabadIn this paper, a new approach to overlapping operations in job shop scheduling is presented. In many job shops, a customer demand can be met in more than one way for each job, where demand determines the quantity of each finished job ordered by a customer. In each job, MoreIn this paper, a new approach to overlapping operations in job shop scheduling is presented. In many job shops, a customer demand can be met in more than one way for each job, where demand determines the quantity of each finished job ordered by a customer. In each job, embedded operations can be performed due to overlapping considerations in which each operation may be overlapped with the others because of its nature. The effects of the new approach on job shop scheduling problems are evaluated. Since the problem is well known as NP-Hard class, a simulated annealing algorithm is developed to solve large scale problems. Moreover, a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) method is applied to validate the proposed algorithm. The approach is tested on a set of random data to evaluate and study the behavior of the proposed algorithm. Computational experiments confirmed superiority of the proposed approach. To evaluate the effect of overlapping considerations on the job shop scheduling problem, the results of classical job shop scheduling with the new approach (job shop scheduling problem with overlapping operations) are compared. It is concluded that the proposed approach can improve the criteria and machines utilization measures in job shop scheduling. The proposed approach can be applied easily in real factory conditions and for large size problems. It should thus be useful to both practitioners and researchers. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
77 - Developing a Method for Increasing Accuracy and Precision in Measurement System Analysis: A Fuzzy Approach
Abolfazl Kazemi Hassan Haleh Vahid Hajipour Seyed Habib RahmatiMeasurement systems analysis (MSA) has been applied in different aspect of industrial assessments to evaluate various types of quantitative and qualitative measures. Qualification of a measurement system depends on two important features: accuracy and precision. Since MoreMeasurement systems analysis (MSA) has been applied in different aspect of industrial assessments to evaluate various types of quantitative and qualitative measures. Qualification of a measurement system depends on two important features: accuracy and precision. Since the capability of each quality system is severely related to the capability of its measurement system, the weakness of the two mentioned features can reduce the reliance on the qualitative decisions. Consequently, since in the literature fuzzy MSA is not considered as an independent study, in this paper, a fuzzy method is developed for increasing method accuracy and precision by encountering the impreciseness of some measures of MSA. To do so, bias, capability, and gauge repeatability and reproducibility (GR&R) indices are considered as triangular fuzzy numbers. The application of the proposed method is illustrated through a case study taken from an automotive parts industry. All rights reserved. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
78 - A Benders' Decomposition Method to Solve Stochastic Distribution Network Design Problem with Two Echelons and Inter-Depot Transportation
Vahid Reza ghezavatiIn many practical distribution networks, managers face significant uncertainties in demand, local price of building facilities, transportation cost, and macro and microeconomic parameters. This paper addresses design of distribution networks in a supply chain system whi MoreIn many practical distribution networks, managers face significant uncertainties in demand, local price of building facilities, transportation cost, and macro and microeconomic parameters. This paper addresses design of distribution networks in a supply chain system which optimizes the performance of distribution networks subject to required service level. This service level, which is considered for each arbitrary request arriving at a distribution center (facility), has a (pre-specified) small probability of being lost. In this mathematical model, customer’s demand is stochastic that follows uniform distribution. In this model, inter-depot transportation (transportation between distributions centers (DCs)), capacities of facilities, and coverage radius restrictions are considered. For this restriction, each DC cannot service all customers. The aim of this model is to select and optimize location of plants and DCs. Also, the best flow of products between DCs and from plants to DCs and from DCs to customers will be determined. The paper presents a mixed integer programming model and proposed an exact solution procedure in regard to Benders’ decomposition method. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
79 - Multi-objective and Scalable Heuristic Algorithm for Workflow Task Scheduling in Utility Grids
Vahid Kahejvand Hossein Pedram Mostafa ZandiehTo use services transparently in a distributed environment, the Utility Grids develop a cyber-infrastructure. The parameters of the Quality of Service such as the allocation-cost and makespan have to be dealt with in order to schedule workflow application tasks in the U MoreTo use services transparently in a distributed environment, the Utility Grids develop a cyber-infrastructure. The parameters of the Quality of Service such as the allocation-cost and makespan have to be dealt with in order to schedule workflow application tasks in the Utility Grids. Optimization of both target parameters above is a challenge in a distributed environment and may conflict one another. We, therefore, present a novel heuristic algorithm for scheduling a workflow application on Utility Grids. Our proposed algorithm optimizes the allocation-cost and makespan in a scalable and very low runtime. The results of the wide-spread simulation indicate that the proposed algorithm is scalable against an increase in the application size and task parallelism of the application. The proposed algorithm effectively outperforms the current algorithms in terms of the allocation-cost, makespan and runtime scalability. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
80 - A New Algorithm for the Discrete Shortest Path Problem in a Network Based on Ideal Fuzzy Sets
Sadollah Ebrahimnejad Seyed Meysam Mousavi Behnam VahdaniA shortest path problem is a practical issue in networks for real-world situations. This paper addresses the fuzzy shortest path (FSP) problem to obtain the best fuzzy path among fuzzy paths sets. For this purpose, a new efficient algorithm is introduced based on a new MoreA shortest path problem is a practical issue in networks for real-world situations. This paper addresses the fuzzy shortest path (FSP) problem to obtain the best fuzzy path among fuzzy paths sets. For this purpose, a new efficient algorithm is introduced based on a new definition of ideal fuzzy sets (IFSs) in order to determine the fuzzy shortest path. Moreover, this algorithm is developed for a fuzzy network problem including three criteria, namely time, cost and quality risk. Several numerical examples are provided and experimental results are then compared against the fuzzy minimum algorithm with reference to the multi-labeling algorithm based on the similarity degree in order to demonstrate the suitability of the proposed algorithm. The computational results and statistical analyses indicate that the proposed algorithm performs well compared to the fuzzy minimum algorithm. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
81 - The Effects of Grasp Conditions on Maximal Acceptable Combined Forces (pushing and pinch forces) for Manual Insertion of Snap Fasteners
Hamed Salmanzadeh Kurt LandauThe objective of this study was to determine the effects of grasp conditions (types of grasp, grasp width, glove and types of coupling) on maximal pushing force (MPF) and required pinch force (RPF) during snap fit assembly. The results indicated that the type of grasp, MoreThe objective of this study was to determine the effects of grasp conditions (types of grasp, grasp width, glove and types of coupling) on maximal pushing force (MPF) and required pinch force (RPF) during snap fit assembly. The results indicated that the type of grasp, the type of coupling and wearing gloves have significant (p<0.05) effects on both MPF and RPF. Regarding the pair wise comparison, there was no significant difference in the effect between the lateral pinch and chuck pinch. MPF and RPF were also not affected significantly by the width of the grasp. Furthermore, there was an interactional effect between the type of coupling and the wearing or rather not wearing a glove. This, of course, only affected the MPF. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
82 - A New Algorithm for Optimization of Fuzzy Decision Tree in Data Mining
Abolfazl Kazemi Elahe MehrzadeganDecision-tree algorithms provide one of the most popular methodologies for symbolic knowledge acquisition. The resulting knowledge, a symbolic decision tree along with a simple inference mechanism, has been praised for comprehensibility. The most comprehensible decision MoreDecision-tree algorithms provide one of the most popular methodologies for symbolic knowledge acquisition. The resulting knowledge, a symbolic decision tree along with a simple inference mechanism, has been praised for comprehensibility. The most comprehensible decision trees have been designed for perfect symbolic data. Classical crisp decision trees (DT) are widely applied to classification tasks. Nevertheless, there are still a lot of problems especially when dealing with numerical (continuous valued) attributes. Some of those problems can be solved using fuzzy decision trees (FDT). Over the years, additional methodologies have been investigated and proposed to deal with continuous or multi-valued data, and with missing or noisy features. Recently, with the growing popularity of fuzzy representation, a few researchers independently have proposed to utilize fuzzy representation in decision trees to deal with similar situations. Fuzzy representation bridges the gap between symbolic and non symbolic data by linking qualitative linguistic terms with quantitative data. In this paper, a new method of fuzzy decision trees is presented. This method proposed a new method for handling continuous valued attributes with user defined membership. The results of crisp and fuzzy decision trees are compared at the end. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
83 - Trajectory Optimization of Cable Parallel Manipulators in Point-to-Point Motion
moharam habib nezhad korayem mehdi bamdad ashkan akbarehPlanning robot trajectory is a complex task that plays a significant role in design and application of robots in task space. The problem is formulated as a trajectory optimization problem which is fundamentally a constrained nonlinear optimization problem. Open-loop opt MorePlanning robot trajectory is a complex task that plays a significant role in design and application of robots in task space. The problem is formulated as a trajectory optimization problem which is fundamentally a constrained nonlinear optimization problem. Open-loop optimal control method is proposed as an approach for trajectory optimization of cable parallel manipulator for a given two-end-point task in point-to-point motion. Dynamic equations are organized in a closed form and are formulated in the state space form. A computational technique is developed for obtaining optimal trajectory to maximize dynamic load carrying capacity. By solving the corresponding nonlinear TPBVP, the problem of optimal path and maximum carrying for a 6 DOF spatial cable robot is studied. Finally, dynamic modelling in ADAMS is presented and to validate the optimal control method, optimal trajectory concerned with dynamic motion is compared with the software results. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
84 - Sensitivity Analysis in the QUALIFLEX and VIKOR Methods
Alireza Alinezhad Nima EsfandiariThe sensitivity analysis for multi-attribute decision making (MADM) problems is important for two reasons: First, the decision matrix asthe source of the results of a decision problem is inaccurate because it sorts the alternatives in each criterion inaccurately. Second MoreThe sensitivity analysis for multi-attribute decision making (MADM) problems is important for two reasons: First, the decision matrix asthe source of the results of a decision problem is inaccurate because it sorts the alternatives in each criterion inaccurately. Second, thedecision maker may change his opinions in a time period because of changes in the importance of the criteria and in the policy of theorganization over time. This in turn makes problem solving really time-consuming. Therefore, the best solution is to do sensitivity analysis.In this regard, this paper considers a sensitivity analysis in the QUALIFLEX method which is a compromise ranking method used formulti-criteria decision making (MCDM). Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
85 - Fuzzy Centroid-Based Method Applied to Customer Requirements Ranking in Diba Fiberglass Company
The purpose of this study is to introduce an application of fuzzy centroid-based approach to ranking the customer requirements using QFD with competition considerations for Diba Fiberglass, an Iranian Company. The illustrated approach, not only focuses on the normal fuz MoreThe purpose of this study is to introduce an application of fuzzy centroid-based approach to ranking the customer requirements using QFD with competition considerations for Diba Fiberglass, an Iranian Company. The illustrated approach, not only focuses on the normal fuzzy numbers, but also considers the non-normal fuzzy numbers to capture the true customer requirements. To this end, first, we provide a concise and operational description of the fuzzy centroid-based approach to ranking the customer requirements in QFD. Then, we focus on the first steps of house of quality (HOQ), which are essentially the customer inputs in QFD with fuzzy considerations including: customer direct ratings, fuzzy representation of customers’ assessments, company performance ratings, competitive priority ratings and final importance ratings. The QFD technique can help Diba Fiberglass Company to make the right decision, which will result in higher improvement. According to the 10 customers’ assessments of the relative performance of the three companies and seven WHATs, a customer comparison matrix is obtained. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
86 - Vendor Selection:An Enhanced Hybrid Fuzzy MCDM Model
Behnam Vahdani Akbar Alem-Tabriz Mostafa ZandiehThe objective of this article is to develop an empirically based framework for formulating and selecting a vendor in supply chain. This study applies the fuzzy set theory to evaluate the vendor selection decision. Applying Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) in obtaining c MoreThe objective of this article is to develop an empirically based framework for formulating and selecting a vendor in supply chain. This study applies the fuzzy set theory to evaluate the vendor selection decision. Applying Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) in obtaining criteria weights and applied Technique for Order Performance by Similarity to Idea Solution (TOPSIS) for obtaining final ranking of vendors. The usefulness of this model is explained through an empirical study for vendor selection. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
87 - DEA with Missing Data: An Interval Data Assignment Approach
Reza Kazemi Matin Roza AziziIn the classical data envelopment analysis (DEA) models, inputs and outputs are assumed as known variables, and these models cannot deal with unknown amounts of variables directly. In recent years, there are few researches on handling missing data. This paper suggests a MoreIn the classical data envelopment analysis (DEA) models, inputs and outputs are assumed as known variables, and these models cannot deal with unknown amounts of variables directly. In recent years, there are few researches on handling missing data. This paper suggests a new interval based approach to apply missing data, which is the modified version of Kousmanen (2009) approach. First, the proposed approach suggests using an acceptable range for missing inputs and outputs, which is determined by the decision maker (DM). Then, applying the least favourable bounds of missing data along with using the proposed range is suggested in estimating the production frontier. A data set is used to illustrate the approach. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
88 - (1, T) policy for a Two-echelon Inventory System with Perishable-on-the-Shelf Items
Anwar Mahmoodi Alireza HajiThis paper deals with an i * Corresponding author Email address: nventory system with one central warehouse and a number of identical retailers. We consider perishable-on-the-shelf items; that is, all items have a fixed shelf life and start to age on their arriva MoreThis paper deals with an i * Corresponding author Email address: nventory system with one central warehouse and a number of identical retailers. We consider perishable-on-the-shelf items; that is, all items have a fixed shelf life and start to age on their arrival at the retailers. Each retailer faces Poisson demand and employs (1, T) inventory policy. Although demand not met at a retailer is lost, the unsatisfied demand at the central warehouse is backordered. In this study, the long-run system total cost rate is derived. Moreover, a proposition is proved to define a domain for the optimal solution. Also, a search algorithm is presented to obtain this solution. Further, we extend the existent paper of the well-known (S‑1, S) policy to cope with our considered model. Finally, in a numerical study, we compare (1, T) policy with (S‑1, S) policy in terms of system total cost. The results reveal that when transportation time from the central warehouse to the retailers is long, the (1, T) policy outperforms the (S‑1, S) policy. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
89 - A Non-radial Approach for Setting Integer-valued Targets in Data Envelopment Analysis
Reza Kazemi MatinData Envelopment Analysis (DEA) has been widely studied in the literature since its inception with Charnes, Cooper and Rhodes work in 1978. The methodology behind the classical DEA method is to determine how much improvements in the outputs (inputs) dimensions is necess MoreData Envelopment Analysis (DEA) has been widely studied in the literature since its inception with Charnes, Cooper and Rhodes work in 1978. The methodology behind the classical DEA method is to determine how much improvements in the outputs (inputs) dimensions is necessary in order to render them efficient. One of the underlying assumptions of this methodology is that the units consume and produce real valued data. This paper deals with the extension of this methodology for the case of integer-valued data. Based on an additive DEA model, a mixed integer linear programming model is proposed for setting integer-valued targets. An empirical example illustrates the approach. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
90 - An Iterated Greedy Algorithm for Flexible Flow Lines with SequenceDependent Setup Times to Minimize Total Weighted Completion Time
Bahman Naderi mostafa Zandieh Seyed Mohammad Taghi Fatemi GhomiThis paper explores the flexile flow lines where setup times are sequence- dependent. The optimization criterion is the minimization of total weighted completion time. We propose an iterated greedy algorithm (IGA) to tackle the problem. An experimental evaluation is con MoreThis paper explores the flexile flow lines where setup times are sequence- dependent. The optimization criterion is the minimization of total weighted completion time. We propose an iterated greedy algorithm (IGA) to tackle the problem. An experimental evaluation is conducted to evaluate the proposed algorithm and, then, the obtained results of IGA are compared against those of some other existing algorithms. The effectiveness of IGA is demonstrated through comparison. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
91 - Evaluation of Effectiveness of Implementing Quality Management System (ISO9001:2000) Using BSC Approach in NIGC
Alireza Alinezhad Ali Masaeli Nima Esfandiari Mona MirhadiThe purpose of this research is to evaluate the effectiveness of implementation Quality Management System (ISO 9001:2000) in gas processing plants of National Iranian Gas Company using balanced scorecard approach. More specifically, we chose the balanced scorecard frame MoreThe purpose of this research is to evaluate the effectiveness of implementation Quality Management System (ISO 9001:2000) in gas processing plants of National Iranian Gas Company using balanced scorecard approach. More specifically, we chose the balanced scorecard framework to examine five well-known gas processing plants in National Iranian Gas Company from four different perspectives in order to provide a more comprehensive view of organizational performance after the registration of ISO 9001. The methodology used in this research comprised administering a questionnaire to 360 respondents in the company in order to find out the results of using ISO 9001:2000 on the firms under study based on four BSC aspects and. The results indicated that: First, the BSC could be used successfully to measure the performance of quality systems in the gas processing plants of NIGC. Second, the findings indicated ranking of five plants based on the BSC perspective. However, the customer and learning perspectives are neglected in the target companies. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
92 - Correlation of Income Inequality and Entrepreneurial Activity
Irina Gontareva Vitalina Babenko Nataliia Shmatko Dariusz PawliszczyThe fact of growth of inequality in distribution of income both inside the national economies and between the countries is confirmed by many empirical studies. In particular, these are annual reports of the World Bank, UNIDO and European Commission. The growth of inequa MoreThe fact of growth of inequality in distribution of income both inside the national economies and between the countries is confirmed by many empirical studies. In particular, these are annual reports of the World Bank, UNIDO and European Commission. The growth of inequality in distribution of income causes social tension inside the countries and promotes conflicts between the countries. Entrepreneurship serves as a form of softening social tension. Entrepreneurial activity ensures a significant percentage of employment and self-employment in many countries providing the income of the population at the level above the minimum consumption rate. In some cases, entrepreneurship could serve as a social lift for transition to a higher level of income distribution. The goal of this article is a statistical check of dependence between the level of income inequality and entrepreneurial activity in countries with different levels of GDP. A system approach and correlation analysis are used as the study methods. The statistical check of a correlation between the Gini index and level of entrepreneurial activity showed significant differences in the correlation degree of the said indicators for different countries and time periods. An assumption was made that there is a statistical dependence between the indicators, however, inclusion of additional parameters, among which we can find inequality of the property distribution and the level of institutional support of entrepreneurship, is required. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
93 - The preemptive resource-constrained project scheduling problem subjectto due dates and preemption penalties: An integer programming approach
Behrouz Afshar nadjafi Shahram ShadrokhExtensive research has been devoted to resource constrained project scheduling problem. However, little attention has been paid to problems where a certain time penalty must be incurred if activity preemption is allowed. In this paper, we consider the project scheduling MoreExtensive research has been devoted to resource constrained project scheduling problem. However, little attention has been paid to problems where a certain time penalty must be incurred if activity preemption is allowed. In this paper, we consider the project scheduling problem of minimizing the total cost subject to resource constraints, earliness-tardiness penalties and preemption penalties, where each time an activity is started after being preempted; a constant setup penalty is incurred. We propose a solution method based on a pure integer formulation for the problem. Finally, some test problems are solved with LINGO version 8 and computational results are reported. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
94 - Outsourcing or Insourcing of Transportation System Evaluation Using Intelligent Agents Approach
isa nakhaei kamalabadi parham azimi mohammad varmaghaniNowadays, outsourcing is viewed as a trade strategy and organizations tend to adopt new strategies to achieve competitive advantages in the current world of business. focusing on main copmpetencies, and transferring most of activities to outside resources of organizatio MoreNowadays, outsourcing is viewed as a trade strategy and organizations tend to adopt new strategies to achieve competitive advantages in the current world of business. focusing on main copmpetencies, and transferring most of activities to outside resources of organization( outsourcing) is one such strategy is. In this paper, we aim to decide on decision maker agent of transportation system, by applying intelligent agent technology and using learning model which is modeled as a reinforcement learning problem. A Q-learning algorithm is proposed to solve the RL model. Results show that the proposed model given its ability to communicate with environment, adaptability with environment and correcting itself based on learnt data ,the prposed model can be applied as a better and quicker learning model in comparison with other ways of solving of decision making problems. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
95 - Design of a Mathematical Model for Logistic Network in a Multi-Stage Multi-Product Supply Chain Network and Developing a Metaheuristic Algorithm
Esmaeil Mehdizadeh Fariborz AfrabandpeiLogistic network design is one of the most important strategic decisions in supply chain management that has recently attracted theattention of many researchers. Transportation network design is then one of the most important fields of logistic network. This study iscon MoreLogistic network design is one of the most important strategic decisions in supply chain management that has recently attracted theattention of many researchers. Transportation network design is then one of the most important fields of logistic network. This study isconcerned with designing a multi-stage and multi-product logistic network. At first, a mixed integer nonlinear programming model(MINLP) is formulated that minimizes transportation and holding costs. Then, a hybrid priority-based Genetic Algorithm (pb-GA) andsimulated annealing algorithm (SA) is developed in two phases to find the optimal solution. The solution is represented by a matrix and avector. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) is also used to adjust the significant parameters of the algorithm. Finally, several testproblems are generated which show that the proposed metaheuristic algorithm can find good solutions in reasonable time spans. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
96 - A Multi-Periodic Multi-Product Inventory Control Problem with Discount: GA Optimization Algorithm
Seyed Mohsen Mousavi Seyed Hamidreza PasandidehIn this article, a finite horizon, multi product and multi period economic order quantity like seasonal items is considered where demand rate is deterministic and known but variable in each period. The order quantities of items come in batch sizes and the end of the per MoreIn this article, a finite horizon, multi product and multi period economic order quantity like seasonal items is considered where demand rate is deterministic and known but variable in each period. The order quantities of items come in batch sizes and the end of the period order quantity and, consequently, demand of customers are zero. In addition, storage space is constrained and the problem was considered under all units discount (AUD) policy. The modeling technique used for this problem is mixed binary integer programming. The objective was to find the minimization optimal order quantities under time value of money over the finite horizon. The inventory control system costs include three costs: ordering cost, holding cost, and purchase cost. In order to solve the proposed model, a genetic algorithm (GA) is applied. Finally, we provide a number of examples in order to illustrate the algorithms further. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
97 - Modelling Customer Attraction Prediction in Customer Relation Management using Decision Tree: A Data Mining Approach
Abolfazl Kazemi Mohammad Esmaeil BabaeiIn Today’s quality- based competitive world, known as knowledge age, customer attraction is of ultimate importance. In respect to the slogan “customer is always right”, customer relation management is the core of an organizational strategy playing an i MoreIn Today’s quality- based competitive world, known as knowledge age, customer attraction is of ultimate importance. In respect to the slogan “customer is always right”, customer relation management is the core of an organizational strategy playing an important role in four aspects of customer identification, customer attraction, customer retaining, and customer satisfaction. Commercial organizations have perceived increased value of customers through analysis of customers’ life cycle. Data storing and data mining tools along with other customer relation management methods have provided new opportunities for the business. This paper tries to help organizations determine the criteria needed for the identification of potential customers in the competitive environment of their business by employing data mining in practice. It also provides a mechanism for the identification of potential customers liable to becoming real customers. Using Decision Tree tool, the main criteria are identified and their importance are determine din this paper and then assuming that each main criterion consists of several sub-criteria, their importance in turning potential customers into real ones is in turn determined. By utilizing the identified criteria and sub- criteria, organizations are able to drive selling processes in each attendance in a direction which results in attendants’ (future customers) purchase. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
98 - A Benders� Decomposition Approach for Dynamic Cellular Manufacturing System in the Presence of Unreliable Machines
Masoud Bagheri Saeed Sadeghi Mohammad Saidi-MehrabadIn order to implement the cellular manufacturing system in practice, some essential factors should be taken into account. In this paper, a new mathematical model for cellular manufacturing system considering different production factors including alternative process rou MoreIn order to implement the cellular manufacturing system in practice, some essential factors should be taken into account. In this paper, a new mathematical model for cellular manufacturing system considering different production factors including alternative process routings and machine reliability with stochastic arrival and service times in a dynamic environment is proposed. Also because of the complexity of the given problem, a Benders’ decomposition approach is applied to solve the problem efficiently. In order to verify the performance of proposed approach, some numerical examples are generated randomly in hypothetical limits and solved by the proposed solution approach. The comparison of the implemented solution algorithm with the conventional mixed integer linear and mixed integer non linear models verifies the efficiency of Benders’ decomposition approach especially in terms of computational time. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
99 - A Proposed Data Mining Methodology and its Application to Industrial Procedures
Data mining is the process of discovering correlations, patterns, trends or relationships by searching through a large amount of data stored in repositories, corporate databases, and data warehouses. Industrial procedures with the help of engineers, managers, and other MoreData mining is the process of discovering correlations, patterns, trends or relationships by searching through a large amount of data stored in repositories, corporate databases, and data warehouses. Industrial procedures with the help of engineers, managers, and other specialists, comprise a broad field and have many tools and techniques in their problem-solving arsenal. The purpose of this study is to improve the effectiveness of these solutions through the application of data mining. To achieve this objective, an adaptation of the engineering design process is used to develop a methodology, specifically designed for industrial procedures’ operations. This paper concludes by describing some of the advantages and disadvantages of the application of data mining techniques and tools to industrial procedures; it mentions some possible problems or issues in its implementation; and finally, it provides recommendations for future research in the application of data mining to facilitate decisions relevant to industrial procedures. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
100 - A Bi-objective Optimization for Vendor Managed Inventory Model
Amir Hossein Niknamfar Seyed Hamid Reza PasandidehVendor managed inventory is a continuous replenishment program that is designed to provide major cost saving benefits for both vendors and retailers. Previous research on this area mainly included single objective optimization models where the objective is to minimize t MoreVendor managed inventory is a continuous replenishment program that is designed to provide major cost saving benefits for both vendors and retailers. Previous research on this area mainly included single objective optimization models where the objective is to minimize the total supply chain costs or to maximize the total supply chain benefits. This paper presents a bi-objective mathematical model for single-manufacture multi-retailer with multi-product in order to maximize their benefits. It is assumed that demand is a decreasing and convex function of the retail price. In this paper, common replenishment cycle is considered for the manufacturer and its retailers. Then, the proposed model converts to the single-objective optimization problem using a weighted sum method. A genetic algorithm (GA) is applied to solve it and response surface methodology is employed to tune the GA parameters. Finally, several numerical examples are investigated to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed model and solution approach. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
101 - A Mixed Integer Programming Formulation for the Heterogeneous Fixed Fleet Open Vehicle Routing Problem
Majid Yousefikhoshbakht Frazad Didehvar Farhad RahmatiThe heterogeneous fixed fleet open vehicle routing problem (HFFOVRP) is one of the most significant extension problems of the open vehicle routing problem (OVRP). The HFFOVRP is the problem of designing collection routes to a number of predefined nodes by a fixed fleet MoreThe heterogeneous fixed fleet open vehicle routing problem (HFFOVRP) is one of the most significant extension problems of the open vehicle routing problem (OVRP). The HFFOVRP is the problem of designing collection routes to a number of predefined nodes by a fixed fleet number of vehicles with various capacities and related costs. In this problem, the vehicle doesn’t return to the depot after serving the last customer. Because of its numerous applications in industrial and service problems, a new model of the HFFOVRP based on mixed integer programming is proposed in this paper. Furthermore, due to its NP-hard nature, an ant colony system (ACS) algorithm was proposed. Since there were no existing benchmarks, this study generated some test problems. From the comparison with the results of exact algorithm, the proposed algorithm showed that it can provide better solutions within a comparatively shorter period of time. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
102 - A Mathematical Model for a Flow Shop Scheduling Problem withFuzzy Processing Times
Jafar Razmi Reza Tavakoli moghaddam Mohammad SaffariThis paper presents a mathematical model for a flow shop scheduling problem consisting of m machine and n jobs with fuzzy processing times that can be estimated as independent stochastic or fuzzy numbers. In the traditional flow shop scheduling problem, the typical obje MoreThis paper presents a mathematical model for a flow shop scheduling problem consisting of m machine and n jobs with fuzzy processing times that can be estimated as independent stochastic or fuzzy numbers. In the traditional flow shop scheduling problem, the typical objective is to minimize the makespan). However,, two significant criteria for each schedule in stochastic models are: expectable makespan and the probability of minimizing the makespan. These criteria can be considered for fuzzy problems as well. In this paper, we propose a solution for the fuzzy model by the use of fuzzy logic based on developing the model presented by MacCahon [18]. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
103 - Assessment of the Components of Financial Potential of the Regions of Ukraine
Davydenko Nadiia Buryak Alina Demyanenko Inna Buryak MykhailoThe relevance of the topic of the study is due to the fact that in Ukraine today, the need to form a perfect system of public finances, stabilize and overcome the uneven regional development of the national economy, which should guarantee a corresponding increase in the MoreThe relevance of the topic of the study is due to the fact that in Ukraine today, the need to form a perfect system of public finances, stabilize and overcome the uneven regional development of the national economy, which should guarantee a corresponding increase in the financial potential of the regions, is of particular importance. as a result of the analysis of the dynamics of the volumes of financial potential of the regions during the analyzed period, significant asymmetries were revealed, which is caused by the influence of factors of the external and internal environment, both positive and negative content, as well as different levels of economic development of the regions. results of the research The result of the study is a clear identification of the tendencies of economic development of the regions of Ukraine on the basis of their financial potential and the reasons for the deepening of differentiation of development, which makes it possible to develop recommendations for improving the formation of financial potential at the level of regions, aimed at increasing the volume of this potential, which will contribute to ensuring the growing dynamics of regional development. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
104 - A New Fuzzy Method for Assessing Six Sigma Measures
Seyed Habib A Rahmati Abolfazl Kazemi Mohammad Saidi Mehrabad Alireza AlinezhadSix-Sigma has some measures which measure performance characteristics related to a process. In most of the traditional methods, exact estimation is used to assess these measures and to utilize them in practice. In this paper, to estimate some of these measures, includin MoreSix-Sigma has some measures which measure performance characteristics related to a process. In most of the traditional methods, exact estimation is used to assess these measures and to utilize them in practice. In this paper, to estimate some of these measures, including Defects per Million Opportunities (DPMO), Defects per Opportunity (DPO), Defects per unit (DPU) and Yield, a new algorithm based on Buckley's estimation approach is introduced. The algorithm uses a family of confidence intervals to estimate the mentioned measures. The final results of introduced algorithm for different measures are triangular shaped fuzzy numbers. Finally, since DPMO, as one of the most useful measures in Six-Sigma, should be consistent with costumer need, this paper introduces a new fuzzy method to check this consistency. The method compares estimated DPMO with fuzzy customer need. Numerical examples are given to show the performance of the method. All rights reserved Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
105 - Practical common weights scalarizing function approach for efficiencyanalysis
Alireza Alinezhad Reza Kiani Mavi Majid Zohrehbandian Ahmad MakuiA characteristic of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is to allow individual decision making units (DMUs) to select the factor weights which are the most advantageous for them in calculating their efficiency scores. This flexibility in selecting the weights, on the other MoreA characteristic of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is to allow individual decision making units (DMUs) to select the factor weights which are the most advantageous for them in calculating their efficiency scores. This flexibility in selecting the weights, on the other hand, deters the comparison among DMUs on a common base. For dealing with this difficulty and assessing all the DMUs on the same scale, this paper proposes using a multiple objective linear programming (MOLP) approach based on scalarizing function for generating common set of weights under the DEA framework. This is an advantageous of the proposed approach against general approaches in the literature which are based on multiple objective nonlinear programming. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
106 - Three Metaheuristic Algorithms for Solving the Multi-item Capacitated Lot-sizing Problem with Product Returns and Remanufacturing
Esmaeil Mehdizadeh Amir Fatehi KiviThis paper proposes a new mixed integer programming model for multi-item capacitated lot-sizing problem with setup times, safety stock and demand shortages in closed-loop supply chains. The returned products from customers can either be disposed or be remanufactured to MoreThis paper proposes a new mixed integer programming model for multi-item capacitated lot-sizing problem with setup times, safety stock and demand shortages in closed-loop supply chains. The returned products from customers can either be disposed or be remanufactured to be sold as new ones again. Due to the complexity of problem, three meta-heuristics algorithms named simulated annealing (SA) algorithm, vibration damping optimization (VDO) algorithm and harmony search (HS) algorithm have been used to solve this model. Additionally, Taguchi method is conducted to calibrate the parameter of the meta-heuristics and select the optimal levels of the algorithm’s performance influential factors. To verify and validate the efficiency of the proposed algorithms in terms of solution quality, the obtained results were compared with those obtained from Lingo 8 software for a different problem. Finally, computational results of these algorithms were compared and analyzed by producing and solving some small, medium and large-size test problems. The results confirmed the efficiency of the HS algorithm against the other methods. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
107 - Designing Solvable Graphs for Multiple Moving Agents
Ellips Masehian Farzaneh DaneshzandSolvable Graphs (also known as Reachable Graphs) are types of graphs that any arrangement of a specified number of agents located on the graph’s vertices can be reached from any initial arrangement through agents’ moves along the graph’s edges, while avoiding dead MoreSolvable Graphs (also known as Reachable Graphs) are types of graphs that any arrangement of a specified number of agents located on the graph’s vertices can be reached from any initial arrangement through agents’ moves along the graph’s edges, while avoiding deadlocks (interceptions). In this paper, the properties of Solvable Graphs are investigated, and a new concept in multi agent motion planning, called Minimal Solvable Graphs is introduced. Minimal Solvable Graphs are the smallest graphs among Solvable Graphs in terms of the number of vertices. Also, for the first time, the problem of deciding whether a graph is Solvable for m agents is answered, and a new algorithm is presented for making an existing graph solvable and lean for a given number of agents. Finally, through an industrial example, it is demonstrated that how the findings of this paper can be used in designing and reshaping transportation networks (e.g. railways, traffic roads, AGV routs, robotic workspaces, etc.) for multiple moving agents such as trains, vehicles, and robots. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
108 - A Supplier Selection Model for Social Responsible Supply Chain
Abolfazl Aliakbari Mehdi SeifbarghyDue to the importance of supplier selection issue in supply chain management (SCM) and ,also, the increasing tendency of organizations to their social responsibilities, In this paper, we survey the supplier selection issue as a multi objective problem while considering MoreDue to the importance of supplier selection issue in supply chain management (SCM) and ,also, the increasing tendency of organizations to their social responsibilities, In this paper, we survey the supplier selection issue as a multi objective problem while considering the factor of corporate social responsibility (CSR) as a mathematical parameter. The purpose of this paper is to design a model so that suppliers are selected and quota is allocated to them while raising their social responsibility to the maximum expected extent. Supplier selection objectives such as cost minimization, quality maximization and on-time delivery maximization have already been surveyed. In this paper, we add objectives such as CSR maximization, maximization of advantages of domestic supplier selection and minimization of sum total distance to suppliers, to the prior objective functions while considering the quality and on time delivery constraints. Observance of CSR is lineally related to quality and on-time delivery and will lead to their increase. The model is presented in linear and integer programming in two states, single product and multi product, then it is solved by Multi Objective Decision Making (MODM) methods (Utility Function, STEM and Goal Programming) and answers are obtained and compared. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
109 - Influence of fuzzy Goal Programming in Production Optimization Case study: Cement Industry
Mahmoud Modiri Saeid Moheb Rabbani Hadi Heidari GharebolaghUsing the mathematic techniques such as Fuzzy approach has useful outcomes for production planning in different sources. In this paper LGP1 was used to model the objectives such as: avoidance of shortage or surplus of demand, access to maximum of income, using the nor MoreUsing the mathematic techniques such as Fuzzy approach has useful outcomes for production planning in different sources. In this paper LGP1 was used to model the objectives such as: avoidance of shortage or surplus of demand, access to maximum of income, using the normal capacity of production and organizing the inventory of warehouse, within the framework of Goal constraints like balancing between demand and inventory, rate of production within every period and the constraints of threshold of inventory at the end of every month. On these lines, the goal programming is one of the best methods for analyzing the multi objective decision making in cement industry management. The most principal disadvantage of goal programming is that all the parameters of model should be defined carefully and all of the objectives and constraints should certainly be determined. For taking over on this problem we introduced the Fuzzy concept. In this research, the mathematic goal programming model in the cement industry is modeled by Fuzzy and absolute approach. This research is intended to answer this question, which one presents the optimal solution for production process planning, Fuzzy or absolute approach? The necessity information to do this research is obtained with using field methods, desk surveys, observations, factory documents, and interviews or questionnaires. In this article we use GP to formulize, AHP2 for grading and weighting and LINGO for solving. Afterwards, the data are entered in the formula modeled before and are solved using LINGO software. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
110 - Determination of Material Flows in a Multi-echelon Assembly SupplyChain
Mehrnoosh Taherkhani Mehdi SeifbarghyThis study aims to minimize the total cost of a four-echelon supply chain including suppliers, an assembler, distributers, and retailers. Thetotal cost consists of purchasing raw materials from the suppliers by the assembler, assembling the final product, materials tran MoreThis study aims to minimize the total cost of a four-echelon supply chain including suppliers, an assembler, distributers, and retailers. Thetotal cost consists of purchasing raw materials from the suppliers by the assembler, assembling the final product, materials transportationfrom the suppliers to the assembler, product transportation from the assembler to the distributors, product transportation from thedistributors to the retailers, and product holding and stock-out in the distribution centers. To this end, having modeled the problemaddressed, a numerical example including ten suppliers, an assembler, three distributors and eight retailers in the chain is solved for fourperiods of time. Then the model is solved by a simulated annealing-based heuristic and LINGO. Finally, a set of 30 numerical problems ofsmall and large sizes are developed and solved. The results indicate that simulated annealing-based heuristic provides near optimalsolutions. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
111 - Layout of Cellular Manufacturing System in Dynamic Condition
amir hossein kamali dolatabadi seyed hamid reza pasandideh mehrzad abdi khalifeCellular manufacturing system (CMS) is highly important in modern manufacturing methods. Given the ever increasing market competition in terms of time and cost of manufacturing, we need models to decrease the cost and time of manufacturing. In this study, CMS is conside MoreCellular manufacturing system (CMS) is highly important in modern manufacturing methods. Given the ever increasing market competition in terms of time and cost of manufacturing, we need models to decrease the cost and time of manufacturing. In this study, CMS is considered in condition of dynamic demand in each period. The model is developed for facing dynamic demand that increases the cost of material flow. This model generates the cells and location facilities at the same time and it can move the machine(s) from one cell to another cell and can generate the new cells for each period. Cell formation is NP-Complete and when this problem is considered in dynamic condition, surly, it is strongly NP- Complete. In this study, genetic algorithm (GA) is used as a meta-heuristic algorithm for solving problems and evaluating the proposed algorithm, Branch and Bound (B & B) is used as a deterministic method for solving problems. Ultimately, the time and final solution of both algorithms are compared. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
112 - A Simulated Annealing Algorithm within the Variable Neighbourhood Search Framework to Solve the Capacitated Facility Location-AllocationProblem
Ragheb Rahmaniani abdosalam Ghaderi Mohammad Saidi MehrabadIn this study, we discuss the capacitated facility location-allocation problem with uncertain parameters in which the uncertainty ischaracterized by given finite numbers of scenarios. In this model, the objective function minimizes the total expected costs oftransportat MoreIn this study, we discuss the capacitated facility location-allocation problem with uncertain parameters in which the uncertainty ischaracterized by given finite numbers of scenarios. In this model, the objective function minimizes the total expected costs oftransportation and opening facilities subject to the robustness constraint. To tackle the problem efficiently and effectively, an efficienthybrid solution algorithm based on several meta-heuristics and an exact algorithm is put forward. This algorithm generates neighborhoodsby combining the main concepts of variable neighborhood search, simulated annealing, and tabu search and finds the local optima by usingan algorithm that uses an exact method in its framework. Finally, to test the algorithms’ performance, we apply numerical experiments onboth randomly generated and standard test problems. Computational experiments show that our algorithm is more effective and efficient interm of CPU time and solutions quality in comparison with CPLEX solver. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
113 - The Model of Achieving a Balanced Balance between Economic Efficiency and Ecological-Social Responsibility of Digitalized Enterprise
Maryna Demianchuk Maksym Bezpartochnyi Liliya Filipishyna Marga ŽivitereThe application of the latest digital technologies changes the ways of thinking of entrepreneurial behaviour and motivation of decision-making, principles of organization of their functioning, so the purpose of work is to form a model of achieving a balanced balance bet MoreThe application of the latest digital technologies changes the ways of thinking of entrepreneurial behaviour and motivation of decision-making, principles of organization of their functioning, so the purpose of work is to form a model of achieving a balanced balance between economic efficiency and environmental and social responsibility of the digitized enterprise, determining the scientific bases for managing such processes. Methods of grouping and formalization, structural-logical and qualitative system analysis and synthesis were used in the research process. The model of achieving a balanced equilibrium is a process of harmonizing the activity of an existing (undesirable) state and achieving an equilibrium state through gradual transformations. The mechanism of control of transformation processes contains information, resource and formative levels of management. The logical-structural matrix contains the main problems and the expected results of balanced development. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
114 - Propagation Models and Fitting Them for the Boolean Random Sets
mojtaba Khazaei Khalil ShafieIn order to study the relationship between random Boolean sets and some explanatory variables, this paper introduces a Propagation model. This model can be applied when corresponding Poisson process of the Boolean model is related to explanatory variables and the random MoreIn order to study the relationship between random Boolean sets and some explanatory variables, this paper introduces a Propagation model. This model can be applied when corresponding Poisson process of the Boolean model is related to explanatory variables and the random grains are not affected by these variables. An approximation for the likelihood is used to find pseudo-maximum likelihood estimates of propagation model parameters when the grains are nonrandom circle with unknown radii. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
115 - Hybrid Meta-heuristic Algorithm for Task Assignment Problem
Mohammad Jafar Tarokh Mehdi Yazdani Mani Sharifi Mohammad Navid MokhtarianTask assignment problem (TAP) involves assigning a number of tasks to a number of processors in distributed computing systems and its objective is to minimize the sum of the total execution and communication costs, subject to all of the resource constraints. TAP is a MoreTask assignment problem (TAP) involves assigning a number of tasks to a number of processors in distributed computing systems and its objective is to minimize the sum of the total execution and communication costs, subject to all of the resource constraints. TAP is a combinatorial optimization problem and NP-complete. This paper proposes a hybrid meta-heuristic algorithm for solving TAP in a heterogeneous distributed computing system. To compare our algorithm with previous ones, an extensive computational study on some benchmark problems was conducted. The results obtained from the computational study indicate that the proposed algorithm is a viable and effective approach for the TAP. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
116 - Exact Mixed Integer Programming for Integrated Scheduling and Process Planning in Flexible Environment
Mohammad Saidi Mehrabad Saeed ZarghamiThis paper presented a mixed integer programming for integrated scheduling and process planning. The presented process plan included some orders with precedence relations similar to Multiple Traveling Salesman Problem (MTSP), which was categorized as an NP-hard problem. MoreThis paper presented a mixed integer programming for integrated scheduling and process planning. The presented process plan included some orders with precedence relations similar to Multiple Traveling Salesman Problem (MTSP), which was categorized as an NP-hard problem. These types of problems are also called advanced planning because of simultaneously determining the appropriate sequence and minimizing makespan in the process of scheduling. There are alternative machines for each operation and different sequences for each order, which create a flexible environment for production planning. In process planning ansd integrated scheduling, most mathematical models have two sets of ordered pairs with precedence or non-precedence relations between operations; therefore, these models cannot be solved using optimization software. Therefore, in this paper, this problem was modeled by a new approach and solved by GAMS software. The model was validated by the existing data in the literature. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
117 - Vendor Managed Inventory of a Supply Chain under Stochastic Demands
Tahereh Poorbagheri Seyed Taghi akhavan niakiIn this research, an integrated inventory problem is formulated for a single-vendor multiple-retailer supply chain that works according to the vendor managed inventory policy. The model is derived based on the economic order quantity in which shortages with penalty cost MoreIn this research, an integrated inventory problem is formulated for a single-vendor multiple-retailer supply chain that works according to the vendor managed inventory policy. The model is derived based on the economic order quantity in which shortages with penalty costs at the retailers` level is permitted. As predicting customer demand is the most important problem in inventory systems and there are difficulties to estimate it, a probabilistic demand is considered to model the problem. In addition, all retailers are assumed to share a unique number of replenishments where their demands during lead-time follow a uniform distribution. Moreover, there is a vendor-related budget constraint dedicated to each retailer. The aim is to determine the near optimal or optimal order quantity of the retailers, the order points, and the number of replenishments so that the total inventory cost of the system is minimized. The proposed model is an integer nonlinear programming problem (NILP); hence, a meta-heuristic namely genetic algorithm (GA) is employed to solve it. As there is no benchmark available in the literature to validate the results obtained, another meta-heuristic called firefly algorithm (FA) is used for validation and verification. To achieve better solutions, the parameters of both meta-heuristics are calibrated using the Taguchi method. Several numerical examples are solved at the end to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed methodology and to compare the performance of the solution approaches. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
118 - Using Hybrid Fuzzy PROMETHEE II and Fuzzy Binary Goal Programming for Risk Ranking: A Case Study of Highway Construction Projects
Samareh Moradpour Sadoullah Ebrahimnejad Esmaeil Mehdizadeh Arash MohamadiMulti attribute decision making methods are considered as one of the most useful methods for solving ranking problems. In some decision making problems, while the alternatives for corresponding criteria are compared in a pairwise comparison manner, if the criteria are i MoreMulti attribute decision making methods are considered as one of the most useful methods for solving ranking problems. In some decision making problems, while the alternatives for corresponding criteria are compared in a pairwise comparison manner, if the criteria are inherently fuzzy, debates will arise in ranking alternatives due to the closeness of the values of the criteria. In this research, the fuzzy PROMETHEE II is proposed as a solution in such conditions. First, using the ANP method, the criteria are weighted. Then, the ranking process is accomplished both by the fuzzy PROMETHEE II and the fuzzy TOPSIS methods. Finally, calculating Spearman correlation coefficient, the results of these two approaches are compared. Then, the most important risks are selected via the fuzzy binary goal programming and ranked again through the fuzzy PROMETHEE II and fuzzy TOPSIS methods finally, in the last step, these ranking two are compared. As a case study, highway construction risks are ranked through this method. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
119 - Using neural network to estimate weibull parameters
Babak Abbasi behrouz Afshar nadjafiAs is well known, estimating parameters of the tree-parameter weibull distribution is a complicated task and sometimes contentious area with several methods vying for recognition. Weibull distribution involves in reliability studies frequently and has many applications MoreAs is well known, estimating parameters of the tree-parameter weibull distribution is a complicated task and sometimes contentious area with several methods vying for recognition. Weibull distribution involves in reliability studies frequently and has many applications in engineering. However estimating the parameters of Weibull distribution is crucial in classical ways. This distribution has three parameters, but for simplicity, a parameter is ridded off and as a result, the estimation of the others will be easily done. When the three-parameter distribution is of interest, the classical estimation procedures such as maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) will be quite boring. In this paper to take advantage of application of artificial neural networks (ANN) to statistics, we propose using a simple neural network to estimate three parameters of Weibull distribution simultaneously. Trained neural network similar to moment method estimates Weibull parameters based on mean, standard deviation, median, skewness and kurtosis of the sample accurately. To assess the power of the proposed method we carry out simulation study and compare the results of the proposed method with real values of the parameters. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
120 - New Heuristic Algorithms for Solving Single-Vehicle and Multi-VehicleGeneralized Traveling Salesman Problems (GTSP)
Ellips MasehianAmong numerous NP-hard problems, the Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP) has been one of the most explored, yet unknown one. Even a minor modification changes the problem’s status, calling for a different solution. The Generalized Traveling Salesman Problem (GTSP)expands MoreAmong numerous NP-hard problems, the Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP) has been one of the most explored, yet unknown one. Even a minor modification changes the problem’s status, calling for a different solution. The Generalized Traveling Salesman Problem (GTSP)expands the TSP to a much more complicated form, replacing single nodes with a group or cluster of nodes, where the objective is to find a minimum-length tour containing exactly one node from each cluster. In this paper, a new heuristic method is presented for solving singlevehicle single-depot GTSP with the ability of controlling the search strategy from conservative to greedy and vice versa. A variant algorithm is then developed to accommodate the multi-vehicle single-depot condition, which is modified afterwards to accommodate the multi-vehicle multi-depot GTSP. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
121 - An Effective Hybrid Genetic Algorithm for Hybrid Flow Shops with Sequence Dependent Setup Times and Processor Blocking
Hybrid flow-shop or flexible flow shop problems have remained subject of intensive research over several years. Hybrid flow-shop problems overcome one of the limitations of the classical flow-shop model by allowing parallel processors at each stage of task processing. I MoreHybrid flow-shop or flexible flow shop problems have remained subject of intensive research over several years. Hybrid flow-shop problems overcome one of the limitations of the classical flow-shop model by allowing parallel processors at each stage of task processing. In many papers the assumptions are generally made that there is unlimited storage available between stages and the setup times are neglected or considered independent from sequences of jobs. In this paper we study the hybrid flow shop problems with sequence dependent setup times and processor blocking. We present an effective hybrid genetic algorithm with some state-of-the-art procedures for these NP-hard problems to minimize total completion time or makespan. We established a benchmark to draw an analogy between the performance of our algorithm and RKGA. The obtaining results clearly show the superiority performance of our algorithm. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
122 - Design of H� Congestion Controller for TCP Networks Based on LMI Formulation
Ahmad Fakharian Amir AbbasiIn this paper, a state feedback H¥ controller is proposed in order to design an active queue management (AQM) system based on congestion control algorithm for networks supporting TCP protocols. In this approach, the available link bandwidth is modeled as a time-vari MoreIn this paper, a state feedback H¥ controller is proposed in order to design an active queue management (AQM) system based on congestion control algorithm for networks supporting TCP protocols. In this approach, the available link bandwidth is modeled as a time-variant disturbance. The purpose of this paper is to design a controller which is capable of achieving the queue size and can guarantee asymptotic stability in the presence of disturbance. An important feature of the proposed approach is that the performance of system, including the disturbance rejection and stability of closed-loop system, are guaranteed for all round-trip times that are less than a known value. The controller design is formulated in the form of some linear matrix inequalities, which can be efficiently solved numerically. The simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods in comparison with the conventional methods. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
123 - Competencies of Personnel in Economy 4.0: Challenges and Solutions
Nina Chala Oksana Poplavska Nataliya Danylevych Mariya MaksmaThe article is dedicated to the analysis of the transformation of the worker’s competencies model in the Economy 4.0 conditions, to the identification of the causes for the increase of the labor redundancy and mismatch on the labor market. The authors identified k MoreThe article is dedicated to the analysis of the transformation of the worker’s competencies model in the Economy 4.0 conditions, to the identification of the causes for the increase of the labor redundancy and mismatch on the labor market. The authors identified key competencies that are important for Ukrainian businesses and made a forecast of required competencies for 2030. The analysis of the compliance of training programs of educational institutions with market requirements has practical value. The authors also proposed the roadmap for coordination of the program of the human resource manager competencies development. An important result came out to be the developed matrix of the necessary level of development of staff competencies for various divisions of the company depending on the decision-making center. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
124 - A New Model for Location-Allocation Problem within Queuing Framework
Seyed Hamid Reza Pasandideh Amirhossain ChambariThis paper proposes a bi-objective model for the facility location problem under a congestion system. The idea of the model is motivated by applications of locating servers in bank automated teller machines (ATMS), communication networks, and so on. This model can be sp MoreThis paper proposes a bi-objective model for the facility location problem under a congestion system. The idea of the model is motivated by applications of locating servers in bank automated teller machines (ATMS), communication networks, and so on. This model can be specifically considered for situations in which fixed service facilities are congested by stochastic demand within queueing framework. We formulate this model with two perspectives simultaneously: (i) customers and (ii) service provider. The objectives of the model are to minimize (i) the total expected travelling and waiting time and (ii) the average facility idle-time. This model represents a mixed-integer nonlinear programming problem which belongs to the class of NP-hard problems. In addition, to solve the model, two metaheuristic algorithms including non-dominated sorting genetic algorithms (NSGA-II) and non-dominated ranking genetic algorithms (NRGA) are proposed. Besides, to evaluate the performance of the two algorithms some numerical examples are roduced and analyzed with some metrics to determine which algorithm works better. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
125 - An Exact Algorithm for the Mode Identity Project Scheduling Problem
Behrouz Afshar Nadjafi Amir Rahimi Hamid KarimiIn this paper we consider the non-preemptive variant of a multi-mode resource constrained project scheduling problem (MRCPSP) withmode identity, in which a set of project activities is partitioned into disjoint subsets while all activities forming one subset have to bep MoreIn this paper we consider the non-preemptive variant of a multi-mode resource constrained project scheduling problem (MRCPSP) withmode identity, in which a set of project activities is partitioned into disjoint subsets while all activities forming one subset have to beprocessed in the same mode. We present a depth-first branch and bound algorithm for the resource constrained project scheduling problemwith mode identity. The proposed algorithm is extended with some bounding rules to reduce the size of branch and bound tree. Finally,some test problems are solved and their computational results are reported. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
126 - Estimation of the cost function of a two-echelon inventory system withlost sales using regression
Mehdi Seif Barghy Maghsoud Amiri mostafa HeidariMulti-echelon inventory systems are one of the most important and attractive areas in modelling supply chain management so that several researches and studies have been done about. In this paper, the total cost function of a two-echelon inventory system with central war MoreMulti-echelon inventory systems are one of the most important and attractive areas in modelling supply chain management so that several researches and studies have been done about. In this paper, the total cost function of a two-echelon inventory system with central warehouse and many identical retailers controlled by continuous review inventory policy is estimated. We have assumed the demand in the retailers experiences independent Poisson distribution and unsatisfied demands are lost in the retailers and unsatisfied retailer order is backordered in the central warehouse. The transportation time from warehouse to each retailer and the lead time of the warehouse orders are assumed to be constant. The accuracy of the estimation is assessed by simulation. The main contribution of this paper is using statistical tools in two-echelon inventory systems analysis. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
127 - Measuring and Analyzing the Bullwhip Effect in a Two-Product and Two Echelon Supply Chain Using Control Theory Approach
Ahmad SadeghiCoordination is very important in supply chain management and it is one of the main factors in supply chain profitability. Bullwhip effect is one of the basic obstacles to achieve coordination in supply chains and reduction of this phenomenon has an important role in su MoreCoordination is very important in supply chain management and it is one of the main factors in supply chain profitability. Bullwhip effect is one of the basic obstacles to achieve coordination in supply chains and reduction of this phenomenon has an important role in supply chain harmony. The other side, costs of supply chain can be mitigated and customer service level can be increased by reducing of bullwhip effect. Because measurement of bullwhip effect is very important in analysing and controlling of it, providing equations to investigate bullwhip effect behaviour based on real world supply chain conditions is necessary. The previous studies mostly concentrate on single product supply chain and few studies have been done on supply chains with more than one product. Here we quantify and investigate the bullwhip effect in a two-echelon supply chain with two products using control theory approach. Due to the relationship between demands of two products in our proposed supply chain, first order vector auto regressive model is used as demand process of the products. We also apply moving average method for lead-time demand forecasting within the "order up to" replenishment policy. We derive a closed form bullwhip measure and then bullwhip effect in a two-product supply chain is discussed and illustrated through a numerical example. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
128 - A Multi-level Capacitated Lot-sizing Problem with Safety Stock Deficit and Production Manners: A Revised Simulated Annealing
Esameil Mehdizadeh Mohammad Reza Mohammadizadeh[1] Corresponding author e-mail: mehdi.foumani@monash.edu [1] Corresponding author e-mail: mehdi.foumani@monash.edu Lot-sizing problems (LSPs) belong to the class of production planning problems in which the availability quantities of the production pla More[1] Corresponding author e-mail: mehdi.foumani@monash.edu [1] Corresponding author e-mail: mehdi.foumani@monash.edu Lot-sizing problems (LSPs) belong to the class of production planning problems in which the availability quantities of the production plan are always considered as a decision variable. This paper aims at developing a new mathematical model for the multi-level capacitated LSP with setup times, safety stock deficit, shortage, and different production manners. Since the proposed linear mixed integer programming model is NP-hard, a new version of simulated annealing algorithm (SA) is developed to solve the model named revised SA algorithm (RSA). Since the performance of the meta-heuristics severely depends on their parameters, Taguchi approach is applied to tune the parameters of both SA and RSA. In order to justify the proposed mathematical model, we utilize an exact approach to compare the results. To demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed RSA, first, some test problems are generated; then, the results are statistically and graphically compared with the traditional SA algorithm. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
129 - A Multi-Mode Resource-Constrained Optimization of Time-Cost Trade-off Problems in Project Scheduling Using a Genetic Algorithm
Sedigheh Nader Abadi Emad Roghanian Hadi AghassiIn this paper, we present a genetic algorithm (GA) for optimization of a multi-mode resource constrained time cost trade off (MRCTCT) problem. The proposed GA, each activity has several operational modes and each mode identifies a possible executive time and cost of the MoreIn this paper, we present a genetic algorithm (GA) for optimization of a multi-mode resource constrained time cost trade off (MRCTCT) problem. The proposed GA, each activity has several operational modes and each mode identifies a possible executive time and cost of the activity. Beyond earlier studies on time-cost trade-off problem, in MRCTCT problem, resource requirements of each execution mode are also allocated and the highest quantities of these resources are limited. In the MRCTCT, the goal is to reduce the total project cost with respect to the resource restrictions .The gene value is encoded as the mode index which is selected from among modes of the activity randomly. For indicating construction mode of the activity, integer encoding is applied instead of binary encoding. Additionally, the selection of genes for mutation is based on chromosome value, as solution convergence rate is high. The crossover operator of GA is based on a two-point method. This paper also offers a multi-attribute fitness function for the problem. This function can vary by decision maker (DM) preferences (time or cost). In this paper, a two-phase algorithm is proposed in which both the effects of time-cost trade-off and resource-constrained allocation are taken into account. A GA-based time-cost trade-off analysis is improved for choosing the execution mode of every activity through the trade-off of time and cost, followed by proposing a resource constrained allocation algorithm to generate an optimum schedule without overriding the project constraints. Lastly, the model is verified by means of a case study and a real project. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
130 - Estimation of Products Final Price Using Bayesian Analysis GeneralizedPoisson Model and Artificial Neural Networks
Marjan Niyati Amir Masud Eftekhari MoghadamEstimating the final price of products is of great importance. For manufacturing companies proposing a final price is only possible after the design process over. These companies propose an approximate initial price of the required products to the customers for which so MoreEstimating the final price of products is of great importance. For manufacturing companies proposing a final price is only possible after the design process over. These companies propose an approximate initial price of the required products to the customers for which some of time and money is required. Here using the existing data of already designed transformers and utilizing the bayesian analysis of generalize poisson models and artificial neural networks, a shortcut method for estimating the material and final price of transformers is established. The proposed method being quite precise and fast, without any cost. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
131 - Solving the Multiple Traveling Salesman Problem by a Novel Meta-heuristic Algorithm
Hossein Larki Majid YousefikhoshbakhtThe multiple traveling salesman problem (MTSP) is a generalization of the famous traveling salesman problem (TSP), where more than one salesman is used in the solution. Although the MTSP is a typical kind of computationally complex combinatorial optimization problem, it MoreThe multiple traveling salesman problem (MTSP) is a generalization of the famous traveling salesman problem (TSP), where more than one salesman is used in the solution. Although the MTSP is a typical kind of computationally complex combinatorial optimization problem, it can be extended to a wide variety of routing problems. This paper presents an efficient and evolutionary optimization algorithm which has been developed through combining Modified Imperialist Competitive Algorithm and Lin-Kernigan Algorithm (MICA) in order to solve the MTSP. In the proposed algorithm, an absorption function and several local search algorithms as a revolution operator are used. The performance of our algorithm was tested on several MTSP benchmark problems and the results confirmed that the MICA performs well and is quite competitive with other meta-heuristic algorithms. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
132 - A Multi Objective Optimization Approach for Resources Procurement of Bank
amir mohammad-zadeh naser hamidi mohammad amin nayebi yusof ebrahimi-sajasCalculating total cast of bank resources procurement methods which include current -free loan deposit, saving interest-free loan deposit, regular and net short-term investment deposit, long-term investment deposit and surety bond cash deposit and presenting their optima MoreCalculating total cast of bank resources procurement methods which include current -free loan deposit, saving interest-free loan deposit, regular and net short-term investment deposit, long-term investment deposit and surety bond cash deposit and presenting their optimal integration require precise scientific studies. Hence, this study is an attempt to know which methods are the best optimal integration banking resources. Linear and ideal planning techniques are used to find an optimal solution according to existing mathematical models. We use three algorithms to construct mathematical models. In the suggested mathematical models, linear planning has 6 variables and 2 constraints in getting no information algorithm and 6 variables and 7 constraints in getting information algorithm and the problem is solved by WINQSB software. But, 6 variables and 8 constraints are solved by LINGO8 software. The results of the study show that presenting an optimal integration of resources procurement methods by using mathematical models is possible and is applicable with regard to determining rational and suitable constraints and ideals for all resource procurement methods. In addition, with regard to the calculation and investigation of procurement cost in financial procurement methods, it is found out that total cost (i.e. real operational cost plus nonoperational cost) is the basis of judgment for studying resource procurement cost. Further, as with the total cost of resource procurement methods, current interest-free loan deposit and long-term investment deposit are the most expensive methods while surety bond cash deposit is the cheapest resource procurement method and other methods fall in between. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
133 - A Fuzzy Decision-Making Methodology for Risk Response Planning in Large-Scale Projects
Seyed Meysam Mousavi Sadigh Raissi Behnam Vahdani Seyed Mohammad HosseinRisk response planning is one of the main phases in the project risk management and has major impacts on the success of a large-scale project. Since projects are unique, and risks are dynamic through the life of the projects, it is necessary to formulate responses of th MoreRisk response planning is one of the main phases in the project risk management and has major impacts on the success of a large-scale project. Since projects are unique, and risks are dynamic through the life of the projects, it is necessary to formulate responses of the important risks. The conventional approaches tend to be less effective in dealing with the impreciseness of risk response planning. This paper presents a new decision-making methodology in a fuzzy environment to evaluate and select the appropriate responses for project risks. To this end, two fuzzy well-known decision-making techniques, namely, decision tree and TOPSIS (technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution), are extended based on multiple selected criteria, simplifying parameterized metric distance and fuzzy similarity measure. Finally, a case study in an oil and gas project in Iran is provided to show the suitability of the proposed fuzzy methodology in large-scale practical situations. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
134 - A parameter-tuned genetic algorithm for vendor managed inventory model for a case single-vendor single-retailer with multi-product and multi-constraint
javad sadeghi ahmad sadeghi mohammad Saidi mehrabadThis paper develops a single-vendor single-retailer supply chain for multi-product. The proposed model is based on Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) approach and vendor uses the retailer's data for better decision making. Number of orders and available capital are the cons MoreThis paper develops a single-vendor single-retailer supply chain for multi-product. The proposed model is based on Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) approach and vendor uses the retailer's data for better decision making. Number of orders and available capital are the constraints of the model. In this system, shortages are backordered; therefore, the vendor’s warehouse capacity is another limitation of the problem. After the model formulation, an Integer Nonlinear Programming problem will be provided; hence, a genetic algorithm has been used to solve the model. Consequently, order quantities, number of shipments received by a retailer and maximum backorder levels for products have been determined with regard to cost consideration. Finally, a numerical example is presented to describe the sufficiency of the proposed strategy with respect to parameter-tuned by response surface methodology (RSM). Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
135 - A Grey-Based Fuzzy ELECTRE Model for Project Selection
Farshad Faezy RaziProject selection is considered as an important problem in project management. It is multi-criteria in nature and is based on various quantitative and qualitative factors. The main purpose of this paper is to present a new rank-based method for project selection in outr MoreProject selection is considered as an important problem in project management. It is multi-criteria in nature and is based on various quantitative and qualitative factors. The main purpose of this paper is to present a new rank-based method for project selection in outranking relation. According to this approach, decision alternatives were clustered in the concordance matrix and the discordance matrix through the ELECTRE model based on intuitionistic trapezoidal fuzzy numbers. Then, the two matrices were integrated and ranked using grey relational coefficients and the Minkowski space distance. The results of the model were compared with grey relational projection method with intuitionistic trapezoidal fuzzy number. To illustrate the proposed methodology, a case study was conducted to select National Iranian Oil Company projects. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
136 - Application of SCOR Model in an Oil- producing Company
Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) model is developed and maintained by the Supply Chain Council (SCC). The model is a reference model which can be utilized to map benchmark and improve the supply chain operations. SCOR model provides companies with a basic proces MoreSupply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) model is developed and maintained by the Supply Chain Council (SCC). The model is a reference model which can be utilized to map benchmark and improve the supply chain operations. SCOR model provides companies with a basic process modeling tool, an extensive benchmark database by defining a set of supply chain metrics. This paper explains the process and results obtained by applying SCOR model to analyze the supply chain of Iranol Oil Company (IOC). Making numerous interviews with the managers and considering the documents regarding the supply chain processes and comparing the current situation of the supply chain with SCOR best practices, some improvement projects were proposed to improve the supply chain performance. The projects were prioritized using TOPSIS, a well-known multi attribute decision making technique. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
137 - A Memetic Algorithm for Hybrid Flowshops with Flexible MachineAvailability Constraints
Fariborz Jolai mostafa zandieh Bahman NaderiThis paper considers the problem of scheduling hybrid flowshops with machine availability constraints (MAC) to minimize makespan. The paper deals with a specific case of MAC caused by preventive maintenance (PM) operations. Contrary to previous papers considering fixed MoreThis paper considers the problem of scheduling hybrid flowshops with machine availability constraints (MAC) to minimize makespan. The paper deals with a specific case of MAC caused by preventive maintenance (PM) operations. Contrary to previous papers considering fixed or/and conservative policies, we explore a case in which PM activities might be postponed or expedited while necessary. Regarding this flexibility in PM activities, we expect to obtain more efficient schedule. A simple technique is employed to schedule production jobs along with the flexible MACs caused by PM. To solve the problem, we present a high performing metaheuristic based on memetic algorithm incorporating some advanced features. To evaluate the proposed algorithm, the paper compares the proposed algorithm with several wellknown algorithms taken from the literature. Finally, we conclude that the proposed algorithm outperforms other algorithms. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
138 - Modelling and Scheduling Lot Streaming Flexible Flow Lines
Bahman naderi Mehdi YazdaniAlthough lot streaming scheduling is an active research field, lot streaming flexible flow lines problems have received far less attention than classical flow shops. This paper deals with scheduling jobs in lot streaming flexible flow line problems. The paper mathematic MoreAlthough lot streaming scheduling is an active research field, lot streaming flexible flow lines problems have received far less attention than classical flow shops. This paper deals with scheduling jobs in lot streaming flexible flow line problems. The paper mathematically formulates the problem by a mixed integer linear programming model. This model solves small instances to optimality. Moreover, a novel artificial bee colony optimization is developed. This algorithm utilizes five effective mechanisms to solve the problem. To evaluate the algorithm, it is compared with adaptation of four available algorithms. The statistical analyses showed that the proposed algorithm significantly outperformed the other tested algorithms. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
139 - The Capacitated Location-Allocation Problem with Interval Parameters
Hassan ShavandiIn this paper, we develop a capacitated location-covering model considering interval values for demand and service parameters. We also consider flexibility on distance standard for covering demand nodes by the servers. We use the satisfaction degree to represent the con MoreIn this paper, we develop a capacitated location-covering model considering interval values for demand and service parameters. We also consider flexibility on distance standard for covering demand nodes by the servers. We use the satisfaction degree to represent the constraint of service capacity. The proposed model belongs to the class of mixed integer programming models. Our model can be reduced to the p-median problem in polynomial time so it is NP-Hard. A genetic algorithm is proposed to solve the developed model and experimental results of solving the model are presented. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
140 - Fuzzy Programming for Parallel Machines Scheduling: Minimizing Weighted Tardiness/Earliness and Flow Time through Genetic Algorithm
Mohammad Asghari Samaneh NezhadaliAppropriate scheduling and sequencing of tasks on machines is one of the basic and significant problems that a shop or a factory manager encounters; this is why in recent decades extensive studies have been done on scheduling issues. One type of scheduling problems is j MoreAppropriate scheduling and sequencing of tasks on machines is one of the basic and significant problems that a shop or a factory manager encounters; this is why in recent decades extensive studies have been done on scheduling issues. One type of scheduling problems is just-in-time (JIT) scheduling and in this area, motivated by JIT manufacturing, this study investigates a mathematical model for appraising a multi-objective programing that minimize total weighted tardiness, earliness and total flowtime with fuzzy parameters on parallel machines, simultaneously with respect to the impact of machine deterioration. Besides, in this paper attempted to present a defuzzification approach and a heuristic method based on genetic algorithm (GA) to solve the proposed model. Finally, several dominant properties of optimal solutions are demonstrated in comparison with the results of a state-of-the-art commercial solver and the simulated annealing method that is followed by illustrating some instances for indicating validity and efficiency of the method. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
141 - New Economic Instruments of State Regulation of Private Savings, Social Security and Pension Support
Sergii Zakharin Anastasia Duka Maksym Zhytar Olga Rudenko Olha SerdiukIn the conditions of market infrastructure for the transformation of medical services, there is an objective need to build effective insurance protection of the population against risks associated with loss of health. Using a systematic approach, the problem of combinin MoreIn the conditions of market infrastructure for the transformation of medical services, there is an objective need to build effective insurance protection of the population against risks associated with loss of health. Using a systematic approach, the problem of combining compulsory and voluntary health insurance is investigated, a theoretical conceptualization of the concept of “financial mechanism of public health insurance” is carried out. The solution of the above problems will contribute to the development of an adequate approach to the formation and use of funds of insurance funds for the effective functioning of the health insurance system. system. Also, the development of a more rational structure of public health will meet the needs of protecting property interests related to loss / deterioration of health. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
142 - Using Electromagnetism Algorithm for Determining the Number of kanbans in a Multi-stage Supply Chain System
Majid Khalili Mohammad Jafar Tarokh Bahman NaderiThis paper studies the multi-stage supply chain system (MSSCM) controlled by the kanban mechanism. In the kanban system, decision making is based on the number of kanbans as well as batch sizes. A kanban mechanism is employed to assist in linking different production pr MoreThis paper studies the multi-stage supply chain system (MSSCM) controlled by the kanban mechanism. In the kanban system, decision making is based on the number of kanbans as well as batch sizes. A kanban mechanism is employed to assist in linking different production processes in a supply chain system in order to implement the scope of just-in-time (JIT) philosophy. For a MSSCM, a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) problem is formulated from the perspective of JIT delivery policy where a kanban may reflect to a transporter. Since the adopted model is of MINLP type and solving it by branch and bound (B&B) takes time, a metaheuristic is presented. This metaheuristic is an electromagnetic algorithm (EA). The EA is compared against an existing algorithm and also B&B results to evaluate the proposed metaheuristic. Extensive experiments and statistical analyses demonstrate that our proposed EM is more efficient than B&B with regard to the objective functions considered in this paper. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
143 - Genetic Algorithm and Simulated Annealing for Redundancy Allocation Problem with Cold-standby Strategy
Aida Karimi Mani Sharifi Amirhossain ChambariThis paper presents a new mathematical model for a redundancyallocation problem (RAP) withcold-standby redundancy strategy and multiple component choices.The applications of the proposed model arecommon in electrical power, transformation,telecommunication systems,etc.M MoreThis paper presents a new mathematical model for a redundancyallocation problem (RAP) withcold-standby redundancy strategy and multiple component choices.The applications of the proposed model arecommon in electrical power, transformation,telecommunication systems,etc.Manystudies have concentrated onone type of time-to-failure, butin thispaper, two components of time-to-failures which follow hypo-exponential and exponential distributionare investigated. The goal of the RAP is to select available components and redundancy level for each subsystem for maximizing system reliability under cost and weight constraints.Sincethe proposed model belongs to NP-hard class, we proposed two metaheuristic algorithms; namely, simulated annealing and genetic algorithm to solve it. In addition, a numerical example is presented to demonstrate the application of the proposed solution methodology. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
144 - A Comparison of NSGA II and MOSA for Solving Multi-depots Time-dependent Vehicle Routing Problem with Heterogeneous Fleet
Behrouz Afshar-nadjafi Arian Razmi-faroojiTime-dependent Vehicle Routing Problem is one of the most applicable but least-studied variants of routing and scheduling problems. In this paper, a novel mathematical formulation of time-dependent vehicle routing problems with heterogeneous fleet, hard time widows and MoreTime-dependent Vehicle Routing Problem is one of the most applicable but least-studied variants of routing and scheduling problems. In this paper, a novel mathematical formulation of time-dependent vehicle routing problems with heterogeneous fleet, hard time widows and multiple depots, is proposed. To deal with the traffic congestions, we also considered that the vehicles are not forced to come back to the depots, from which they were departed. In order to solve our bi-objective formulation, we presented two well-known Meta-heuristic algorithms, namely NSGA II and MOSA and compared their performance based on a set of randomly generated test problems. The results confirm that our MILP model is valid and both NSGA II and MOSA work properly. While NSGA II finds closer solutions to the true Pareto front, MOSA finds evenly- distributed solutions which allows the algorithm to search the space more diversely. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
145 - A Tunned-parameter Hybrid Algorithm for Dynamic Facility Layout Problem with Budget Constraint using GA and SAA
Hani Pourvaziri Parham AzimiA facility layout problem is concerned with determining the best position of departments, cells, or machines on the plant. An efficient layout contributes to the overall efficiency of operations. It’s been proved that, when system characteristics change, it can ca MoreA facility layout problem is concerned with determining the best position of departments, cells, or machines on the plant. An efficient layout contributes to the overall efficiency of operations. It’s been proved that, when system characteristics change, it can cause a significant increase in material handling cost. Consequently, the efficiency of the current layout decreases or is lost and it does necessitate rearrangement. On the other hand, the rearrangement of the workstations may burden a lot of expenses on the system. The problem that considers balance between material handling cost and the rearrangement cost is known as the Dynamic Facility Layout Problem (DFLP). The objective of a DFLP is to find the best layout for the company facilities in each period of planning horizon considering the rearrangement costs. Due to the complex structure of the problem, there are few researches in the literature which tried to find near optimum solutions for DFLP with budget constraint. In this paper, a new heuristic approach has been developed by combining Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Parallel Simulated Annealing Algorithm (PSAA) which is the main contribution of the current study. The results of applying the proposed algorithm were tested over a wide range of test problems taken from the literature. The results show efficiency of the hybrid algorithm GA- to solve the Dynamic Facility Layout Problem with Budget Constraint (DFLPBC). Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
146 - Two-stage Production Systems under Variable Returns to Scale Technology: A DEA Approach
roza azizi reza kazemi matinData envelopment analysis (DEA) is a non-parametric approach for performance analysis of decision making units (DMUs) which uses a set of inputs to produce a set of outputs without the need to consider internal operations of each unit. In recent years, there have been v MoreData envelopment analysis (DEA) is a non-parametric approach for performance analysis of decision making units (DMUs) which uses a set of inputs to produce a set of outputs without the need to consider internal operations of each unit. In recent years, there have been various studies dealt with two-stage production systems, i.e. systems which consume some inputs in their first stage to produce some intermediate outputs which are used as the inputs of the second stage in producing final outputs. One of these researches done by Kao and Hwang (2008) gives a decomposition of system efficiency score based on the efficiency of its sub-processes in the case of constant returns to scale (CRS) technology. This paper presents an extension of this approach for the technologies with variable returns to scale (VRS) and explains the results. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
147 - Reliability Modelling of the Redundancy Allocation Problem in the Series-parallel Systems and Determining the System Optimal Parameters
Mani Sharifi Mohsen YaghoubizadehConsidering the increasingly high attention to quality, promoting the reliability of products during designing process has gained significant importance. In this study, we consider one of the current models of the reliability science and propose a non-linear programming MoreConsidering the increasingly high attention to quality, promoting the reliability of products during designing process has gained significant importance. In this study, we consider one of the current models of the reliability science and propose a non-linear programming model for redundancy allocation in the series-parallel systems according to the redundancy strategy and considering the assumption that the failure rate depends on the number of the active elements. The purpose of this model is to maximize the reliability of the system. Internal connection costs, which are the most common costs in electronic systems, are used in this model in order to reach the real-world conditions. To get the results from this model, we used meta-heuristic algorithms such as genetic algorithm and simulation annealing after optimizing their operators’ rates by using response surface methodology. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
148 - Extension of Portfolio Selection Problem with Fuzzy Goal Programming: A Fuzzy Allocated Portfolio Approach
Alireza Alinezhad Majid Zohrehbandian Meghdad Kian Mostafa Ekhtiari Nima EsfandiariRecently, the economic crisis has resulted in instability in stock exchange market and this has caused high volatilities in stock value of exchanged firms. Under these conditions, considering uncertainty for a favorite investment is more serious than before. Multi-objec MoreRecently, the economic crisis has resulted in instability in stock exchange market and this has caused high volatilities in stock value of exchanged firms. Under these conditions, considering uncertainty for a favorite investment is more serious than before. Multi-objective Portfolio selection (Return, Liquidity, Risk and Initial cost of Investment objectives) using MINMAX fuzzy goal programming for a Fuzzy Allocated Portfolio is considered in this research and all the main sectors of investment are assumed under uncertainty. A numerical example on stock exchange is presented to demonstrate the validity and strengths of the proposed approach. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
149 - Modelling Integrated Multi-item Supplier Selection with Shipping Frequencies
Abolfazl Kazemi Danial Esmaeili AliabadiThere are many benefits for coordination of multiple suppliers when single supplier cannot satisfy buyer demands. In addition, buyer needs to purchase multiple items in a real supply chain. So, a model that satisfies these requests has many advantages. We extend the exi MoreThere are many benefits for coordination of multiple suppliers when single supplier cannot satisfy buyer demands. In addition, buyer needs to purchase multiple items in a real supply chain. So, a model that satisfies these requests has many advantages. We extend the existing approaches in the literature that assume all suppliers need to be put on a common replenishment cycle and each supplier delivers exactly once in a cycle. More specifically, inspired by approaches that perform well for the Economic Lot Scheduling Problem, we assume an integer number of times a supplier can ship available items in an overall replenishment cycle. Because of complexity issue, a new approach based on genetic algorithm is employed to solve the presented model. Results depict that new model is more beneficial and practical. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
150 - Innovation Management of Enterprises: Legal Provision and Analytical Tools for Evaluating Business Strategies
Olena Bilovodska Andrii Kholostenko Zhanna Mandrychenko Olha VolokitenkoThe article investigates the peculiarities of the enterprise's innovation activity and its legal regulation, conducts the evaluation of the business strategy for chemical companies according to the manufacturer’s principles of innovation management. The purpose of MoreThe article investigates the peculiarities of the enterprise's innovation activity and its legal regulation, conducts the evaluation of the business strategy for chemical companies according to the manufacturer’s principles of innovation management. The purpose of the paper is to evaluate the business strategy of chemical companies according to the manufacturer’s principles of innovation management. According to the evaluation results it is determined that the business strategy is unstable and needs to be improved. Also there are negative trends in the enterprise’s development and decrease in the efficiency. The complex of recommendations to improve the business strategy which forms the basis for the methodology of the selection the most objective strategic alternative in the chemical companies is proposed. To improve the strategy the authors suggested to expand enterprise’s market share and to implement intensity of product sale for different types of products; to consider the peculiarities of legal regulation for chemical industry in the field of innovative goods production; to keep the trend of production costs reduction; to seek ways to increase the profit of the enterprise by cost control and increasing sales. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
151 - A New Hybrid Algorithm to Optimize Stochastic-fuzzy Capacitated Multi-Facility Location-allocation Problem
Esmaeil Mehdizadeh Mohammad Reza Tavarroth Vahid HajipourFacility location-allocation models are used in a widespread variety of applications to determine the number of required facility along with the relevant allocation process. In this paper, a new mathematical model for the capacitated multi-facility location-allocation p MoreFacility location-allocation models are used in a widespread variety of applications to determine the number of required facility along with the relevant allocation process. In this paper, a new mathematical model for the capacitated multi-facility location-allocation problem with probabilistic customer's locations and fuzzy customer’s demands under the Hurwicz criterion is proposed. This model is formulated as α-cost minimization model according to different criteria. Since our problem is strictly Np-hard, a new hybrid intelligent algorithm is presented to solve the stochastic-fuzzy model. The proposed algorithm is based on a vibration damping optimization (VDO) algorithm which is combined with the simplex algorithm and fuzzy simulation (SFVDO). Finally, a numerical example is presented to illustrate the capability of the proposed solving methodologies. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
152 - A Cellular Learning Automata (CLA) Approach to Job Shop Scheduling Problem
Job shop scheduling problem (JSSP), as one of the NP-Hard combinatorial optimization problems, has attracted the attention of many researchers during the last four decades. The overall purpose regarding this problem is to minimize maximum completion time of jobs, known MoreJob shop scheduling problem (JSSP), as one of the NP-Hard combinatorial optimization problems, has attracted the attention of many researchers during the last four decades. The overall purpose regarding this problem is to minimize maximum completion time of jobs, known as makespan. This paper addresses an approach to evolving Cellular Learning Automata (CLA) in order to enable it to solve the JSSP by minimizing the makespan. This approach is applied to several instances of a variety of benchmarks and the experimental results show that it produces nearly optimal solutions, compared with other approaches. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
153 - Maximal Benefit Location Problem for A Congested System
reza rabieyan mehdi seifbarghySome servers are to be located at nodes of a network. Demand for services of these servers is located at each node and a subset of the nodes is to be chosen to locate one server in each. Each customer selects a server with a probability dependent on distance and a cert MoreSome servers are to be located at nodes of a network. Demand for services of these servers is located at each node and a subset of the nodes is to be chosen to locate one server in each. Each customer selects a server with a probability dependent on distance and a certain amount of benefit is achieved after giving service to the customer. Customers may waive receiving service with a known probability. The objective is to maximize the total benefit. In this paper, the problem is formulated, three solution algorithms are developed and applied to some numerical examples to analyze the results. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
154 - Optimizing the Prediction Model of Stock Price in Pharmaceutical Companies Using Multiple Objective Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm (MOPSO)
Ali Khazaei Babak Haji Karimi Mohammad Mahdi MozaffariThe purpose of this study is to optimize the stock price forecasting model with meta-innovation method in pharmaceutical companies.In this research, stock portfolio optimization has been done in two separate phases.The first phase is related to forecasting stock futures MoreThe purpose of this study is to optimize the stock price forecasting model with meta-innovation method in pharmaceutical companies.In this research, stock portfolio optimization has been done in two separate phases.The first phase is related to forecasting stock futures based on past stock information, which is forecasting the stock price using artificial neural network.The neural network used was a multilayer perceptron network using the error propagation learning algorithm.After predicting the stock price with the neural network, the forecast price data in the second phase has been used to optimize the stock portfolio.In this phase, a multi-objective genetic algorithm is used to optimize the portfolio, and the optimal weights are assigned to the stock and the optimal stock portfolio is created.Having a regression model, the design of the relevant genetic algorithm has been done using MATLAB software.The results show that the stock portfolio created by MOPSO algorithm has a better performance compared to the algorithms used in the article under comparison under all four risk criteria except the criterion of conditional risk exposure. In all models, except the conditional risk-averaged value model, the stock portfolios created by the MOPSO algorithm used in the research have more and more appropriate performance. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
155 - An Effective Genetic Algorithm for Solving the Multiple Traveling Salesman Problem
Mohammad Sedighpour Majid Yousefikhoshbakht Narges Mahmoodi DaraniThe multiple traveling salesman problem (MTSP) involves scheduling m > 1 salesmen to visit a set of n > m nodes so that each node is visited exactly once. The objective is to minimize the total distance traveled by all the salesmen. The MTSP is an example of combi MoreThe multiple traveling salesman problem (MTSP) involves scheduling m > 1 salesmen to visit a set of n > m nodes so that each node is visited exactly once. The objective is to minimize the total distance traveled by all the salesmen. The MTSP is an example of combinatorial optimization problems, and has a multiplicity of applications, mostly in the areas of routing and scheduling. In this paper, a modified hybrid metaheuristic algorithm called GA2OPT for solving the MTSP is proposed. In this algorithm, at the first stage, the MTSP is solved by the modified genetic Algorithm (GA) in each iteration, and, at the second stage, the 2-Opt local search algorithm is used for improving solutions for that iteration. The proposed algorithm was tested on a set of 6 benchmark instances from the TSPLIB and in all but four instances the best known solution was improved. For the rest instances, the quality of the produced solution deviates less than 0.01% from the best known solutions ever. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
156 - Forecasting the Cost of Water Using a Neural Network Method in theMunicipality of Isfahan
Amir Mohammadzadeh Nasrin Mahdipour Arash MohammadzadehDecision making on budgeting is one of the most important issues for executing managers. Budgeting is a major tool for planning andcontrol of projects. In public and non-profit organizations and institutions, estimating the costs and revenues plays an important role inr MoreDecision making on budgeting is one of the most important issues for executing managers. Budgeting is a major tool for planning andcontrol of projects. In public and non-profit organizations and institutions, estimating the costs and revenues plays an important role inreceiving credit and budgeting. In this regard, in the present paper the case of Isfahan municipality is considered. One of the mainexpenditures of the 14 districts of Isfahan is the costs related to water. Predicting the total cost of water helps the municipality of Isfahan tooptimize the water use in its 14 urban zones. Thus, in this study the total cost of water in the districts of Isfahan is estimated usingregression analysis and neural network models. Then the results of the methods are compared with each other to minimize the deviationsfrom the approved budget. Finally, the neural network method is selected as the main simulation method for forecasting the total cost ofwater in the districts of Isfahan. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
157 - A Heuristic Algorithm for Nonlinear Lexicography Goal Programming with an Efficient Initial Solution
Mahdi Bashiri Amir Hossein Parsa Manesh Hamid HasanzadehIn this paper, a heuristic algorithm is proposed in order to solve a nonlinear lexicography goal programming (NLGP) by using an efficient initial point. Some numerical experiments showed that the search quality by the proposed heuristic in a multiple objectives problem MoreIn this paper, a heuristic algorithm is proposed in order to solve a nonlinear lexicography goal programming (NLGP) by using an efficient initial point. Some numerical experiments showed that the search quality by the proposed heuristic in a multiple objectives problem depends on the initial point features, so in the proposed approach the initial point is retrieved by Data Envelopment Analysis to be selected as an efficient solution. There are some weaknesses in classic NLGP algorithm that lead to trapping into the local optimum, so a simulated annealing concept is implemented during the searching stage to increase the diversity of search in the solution space. Some numerical examples with different sizes were generated and comparison of results confirms that the proposed solution heuristic is more efficient than the classic approach. Moreover the proposed approach was extended for cases with ordinal weights of inputs or outputs. The computational experiments for 5 numerical instances and the statistical analysis indicate that the proposed heuristic algorithm is a robust procedure to find better preferred solution comparing to the classic NLGP. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
158 - Competitiveness of The Company on The Market: Analytical Method of Assessment and The Phenomenon of The Impact of Corruption in Ukraine
R. Skrynkovskyy A. Kataiev O. Zaiats H. Andrushchenko N. PopovaThe purpose of the article is to substantiate the theoretical positions and develop practical recommendations for the development of tools for analytical assessment of the competitiveness of an enterprise, taking into account the influence of the corruption component. I MoreThe purpose of the article is to substantiate the theoretical positions and develop practical recommendations for the development of tools for analytical assessment of the competitiveness of an enterprise, taking into account the influence of the corruption component. It has been established that the main inalienable structural components of the analytical assessment of the competitiveness of enterprises on the market are: 1) the efficiency of the enterprise (in four components: financial and economic efficiency, commercial efficiency, production-technological efficiency, social efficiency); 2) the competitiveness of the enterprise’s products (includes calculation of such indicators as an integral indicator of product quality (useful effect), price of products, integral indicator of service quality and other additional (consumer) product parameters). Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
159 - A Benders Decomposition Method to Solve an Integrated Logistics Network Designing Problem with Multiple Capacities
Nadieh Sodagari Ahmad SadeghiIn this paper, a new model is proposed for the integrated logistics network designing problem. In many research papers in this area, it is assumed that there is only one option for the capacity of each facility in the network. However, this is not a realistic assumption MoreIn this paper, a new model is proposed for the integrated logistics network designing problem. In many research papers in this area, it is assumed that there is only one option for the capacity of each facility in the network. However, this is not a realistic assumption because generally there may be many possible options for the capacity of the facility that is being established. Usually the cost of establishing a facility depends on its capacity. Moreover, of the majority of the research done in the field of logistics network designing problem only a limited number of options for product recovery is addressed. Specifically, in most of the research papers only one option, i.e. remanufacturing, has been considered. Therefore, a mathematical formulation with multiple options for capacities and product recovery is addressed in this research to obviate this gap. Afterwards a benders decomposition method is developed to efficiently solve the problem. The computational results introduce several random generated problems to be solved with benders algorithm and demonstrate that this algorithm can efficiently solve the proposed model. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
160 - Facility Location and Inventory Balancing in a Multi-period Multi-echelon Multi-objective Supply Chain: An MOEA Approach
Seyed Habib A. Rahmati Abbas Ahmadi Behrooz KarimiA comprehensive and integrated study of any supply chain (SC) environment is a vital requirement that can create various advantages for the SC owners. This consideration causes productive managing of the SC through its whole wide components from upstream suppliers to do MoreA comprehensive and integrated study of any supply chain (SC) environment is a vital requirement that can create various advantages for the SC owners. This consideration causes productive managing of the SC through its whole wide components from upstream suppliers to downstream retailers and customers. On this issue, despite many valuable studies reported in the current literature, considerable gaps still prevail. These gaps include integration and insertion of basic concepts, such as queuing theory, facility location, inventory management, or even fuzzy theory, as well as other new concepts such as strategic planning, data mining, business intelligence, and information technology. This study seeks to address some of these gaps. To do so, it proposes an integrated four-echelon multi-period multi-objective SC model. To make the model closer to the real world problems, it is also composed of inventory and facility location planning, simultaneously. The proposed model has a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) structure. The objectives of the model are reducing cost and minimizing the non-fill rate of customer zones demand. The cost reduction part includes cost values of raw material shipping from suppliers to plants, plant location, inventory holding costs in plants, distribution cost from plants to warehouses or distribution centers (DCs), and shipping costs from DCs to customer zones. Finally, since the literature of SC lacks efficient Pareto-based multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (MOEAs), a new multi-objective version of the biogeography-based optimization algorithm (MOBBO) is introduced to the literature of the SC. The efficiency of the algorithm is proved through its comparison with an existing algorithm called multi-objective harmony search (MOHS). Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
161 - National Resilience As A Determinant Of National Security Of Ukraine
Svitlana Bondarenko Ivan Tkach Serhii Drobotov Anatolii Mysyk Kateryna PlutytskaThe purpose of this study is theoretical and methodological substantiation, deepening of conceptual provisions and development of scientific and practical recommendations for the formation of an integrated sector of national security and defense based on the principles MoreThe purpose of this study is theoretical and methodological substantiation, deepening of conceptual provisions and development of scientific and practical recommendations for the formation of an integrated sector of national security and defense based on the principles of national resilience. The relevance of this study is due to the need to build national resilience to address the main problems of national security of Ukraine. The main components of national security and resilience development of the country on the basis of global indices are considered, the main patterns and key problems of national security of Ukraine are highlighted. Studies have found, which is a condition for providing national security is the formation of an appropriate level of internal resilience of the state, the basis of which is economic resilience, the rule of law, modern infrastructure, education and medicine. It is established that Ukraine is characterized by a low level of management in the public administration system, a high level of corruption, low efficiency of government decisions, non-compliance with current legislation in various spheres of life. it is proved that it is necessary for the formation of an integral sector of national security and defense a balanced combination of the capabilities of the main elements of the national security system and the objects of national resilience. Priority areas for building national resilience have been identified for Ukraine: creation of a multilevel risk assessment system; improving strategic planning, analysis and crisis management; developing the resilience potential of local communities and regions. A formalized model of an integrated national security system is proposed, based on the principles of resilience of regional security parameters of all regions of Ukraine and a resource-oriented approach to the transition of the existing state of regional security to the desired state. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
162 - A multi-objective evolutionary approach for integrated production-distribution planning problem in a supply chain network
Keyvan Sarrafha Abolfazl Kazemi Alireza AlinezhadIntegrated production-distribution planning (PDP) is one of the most important approaches in supply chain networks. We consider a supply chain network (SCN) to consist of multi suppliers, plants, distribution centers (DCs), and retailers. A bi-objective mixed integer li MoreIntegrated production-distribution planning (PDP) is one of the most important approaches in supply chain networks. We consider a supply chain network (SCN) to consist of multi suppliers, plants, distribution centers (DCs), and retailers. A bi-objective mixed integer linear programming model for integrating production-distribution designed here aim to simultaneously minimize total net costs in supply chain and transfer time of products for retailers. From different terms of evolutionary computations, this paper proposes a Pareto-based meta-heuristic algorithm called multi-objective simulated annealing (MOSA) to solve the problem. To validate the results obtained, a popular algorithm namely non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) is utilized as well. Since the solution-quality of proposed meta-heuristic algorithm severely depends on their parameters, the Taguchi method is utilized to calibrate the parameters of the proposed algorithm. Finally, in order to prove the validity of the proposed model, a numerical example is solved and conclusions are discussed. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
163 - A Compromise Decision-making Model for Multi-objective Large-scale Programming Problems with a Block Angular Structure under Uncertainty
behnam vahdani meghdad Salimi behrouz Afshar najafiThis paper proposes a compromise model, based on the technique for order preference through similarity ideal solution (TOPSIS) methodology, to solve the multi-objective large-scale linear programming (MOLSLP) problems with block angular structure involving fuzzy paramet MoreThis paper proposes a compromise model, based on the technique for order preference through similarity ideal solution (TOPSIS) methodology, to solve the multi-objective large-scale linear programming (MOLSLP) problems with block angular structure involving fuzzy parameters. The problem involves fuzzy parameters in the objective functions and constraints. This compromise programming method is based on the assumption that the optimal alternative is closer to fuzzy positive ideal solution (FPIS) and at the same time, farther from fuzzy negative ideal solution (FNIS).An aggregating function that is developed from LP- metric is based on the particular measure of ‘‘closeness” to the ‘‘ideal” solution.An efficient distance measurement is utilized to calculate positive and negative ideal solutions. The solution process is as follows: first, the decomposition algorithm is used to divide the large-dimensional objective space into a two-dimensional space. A multi-objective identical crisp linear programming is derived from the fuzzy linear model for solving the problem. Then, a single-objective large-scale linear programming problem is solved to find the optimal solution. Finally, to illustrate the proposed method, an illustrative example is provided. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
164 - Strategic Management of the Innovative Activity of the Enterprise
Zalutska Khrystyna Petrushka Kateryna Myshchyshyn Olha Danylovych OlenaEffective innovative activity of enterprises with the dynamic economic development is possible under the conditions of timely implementation of innovative projects that satisfy and meet the requirements of the external and internal environment and contribute to building MoreEffective innovative activity of enterprises with the dynamic economic development is possible under the conditions of timely implementation of innovative projects that satisfy and meet the requirements of the external and internal environment and contribute to building up their own potential with the orientation of the enterprise activity on the long-term prospect of development. This contributes to higher importance and role of strategic management of innovation activity of domestic enterprises. Therefore, the purpose of the article is to provide methodological and practical recommendations for the development and implementation of the strategic management system of innovative activity of the enterprise. in order to achieve this goal, the stages of the strategic management process have been specified, which are grouped into three stages: preparation for strategic management; ensuring the strategic management process; control over strategy implementation. The relationships between the stages have been described, as well as the components, the features of the activities and the sequence of actions for each of the stages. The researches were carried out using the following methods: analysis; modeling; empirical research; systematic approach; generalization. The effectiveness of the proposed recommendations for the formation and use of strategic management of innovation activities has been confirmed by the activity results of the enterprises (Horodok Mechanical Plant PJSC, Ozon LLC, Zakhar Berkut Ski Resort), which provided a sustainable long-term competitive position in the market at the expense of the timely and correct identification of emerging strategic problems at the early stages of innovation activity. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
165 - Time Prediction Using a Neuro-Fuzzy Model for Projects in the Construction Industry
Behnam Vahdani Seyed Meysam Mousavi Morteza Mousakhani Hassan HashemiThis paper presents a prediction model based on a new neuro-fuzzy algorithm for estimating time in construction projects. The output of the proposed prediction model, which is employed based on a locally linear neuro-fuzzy (LLNF) model, is useful for assessing a project MoreThis paper presents a prediction model based on a new neuro-fuzzy algorithm for estimating time in construction projects. The output of the proposed prediction model, which is employed based on a locally linear neuro-fuzzy (LLNF) model, is useful for assessing a project status at different time horizons. Being trained by a locally linear model tree (LOLIMOT) learning algorithm, the model is intended for use by members of the project team in performing the time control of projects in the construction industry. The present paper addresses the effects of different factors on the project time and schedule by using both fuzzy sets theory (FST) and artificial neural networks (ANNs) in a construction project in Iran. The construction project is investigated to demonstrate the use and capabilities of the proposed model to see how it allows users and experts to actively interact and, consequently, make use of their own experience and knowledge in the estimation process. The proposed model is also compared to the well-known intelligent model (i.e., BPNN) to illustrate its performance in the construction industry. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
166 - Business Restructuring as a Method of Strengtening Company’s Financial Position
Inese Mavlutova Vitalina Babenko Volodymyr Dykan Nataliia Prokopenko Sergiy Kalinichenko Iryna TokmakovaRestructuring is relevant for companies that have free capital and need to expand for development purposes, as well as for companies that have relatively large problems with financial results and the relevant indicators indicate the necessary changes. Motives of the res MoreRestructuring is relevant for companies that have free capital and need to expand for development purposes, as well as for companies that have relatively large problems with financial results and the relevant indicators indicate the necessary changes. Motives of the restructuring may be different, the authors put forward the following reasons: operation operational synergy, financial synergy, diversification, economic motives. Restructuring is one of the key methods for company’s financial position strengthening. Motives of restructuring are various, but the objective is company's value increase and the strengthening of financial position. The authors investigate the essence of the company's financial strategy, studied restructuring as a modern approach of company development in the crisis period, as well as the company's valuation and financial analysis methods, which were used for restructuring. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
167 - Solution to “the Kuznets Riddle”
Ihor Skvortsov Olena Zahoretska Oksana Musiiovska Anatolii HavryliakS. Kuznets's study that the average propensity to consume is a constant value were nexpected because they denied one of the basic provisions of the Keynesian theory. This fact was called "the riddle of Kuznets". F. Modigliani and M. Friedman, using the hypothesis of the MoreS. Kuznets's study that the average propensity to consume is a constant value were nexpected because they denied one of the basic provisions of the Keynesian theory. This fact was called "the riddle of Kuznets". F. Modigliani and M. Friedman, using the hypothesis of the life cycle and the concept of constant income, proposed two options that explain its solution. But models should not explain, but give a method of solution. The most controversial is the indicator of autonomous consumption. In the first model, it grows, and in the second it goes to zero. Creation of a method of simulation of consumption functions based on common methodological principles for the consideration of micro and macroeconomic systems. Having constructed a model that objectively describes the activity of a separate enterprise, the primary and primary links of the macroeconomic system, we can explore the whole system. At the exit of the economic system we consider two functions of the offer - cost and cost-price, and one demand. These functions form two types of Keynesian cross, which define two points: break-even and economic power (equilibrium In a three-dimensional space a chain of transformations is considered: profit, investments, fixed assets, growth of depreciation (constant costs) and output. The condition for the formation of a "proportional development economy" - the average propensity to consume should remain unchanged, which is achieved when the marginal values of the multipliers of fixed costs and return on assets are constant. Such periods were explored by S. Kuznets. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
168 - Determination of the Company's Value under the Influence of Various Factors
Anzhela Ignatyuk Alexander Dikiy Liubov Shevtsiv Yuliia Petlenko Nataliia Klymash Oleksandr ZaitsevThe authors studied and analyzed various concepts and approaches to company value management. They described the advantages and disadvantages of the leading traditional approaches to assessing the value of an enterprise and proposed a model of the dynamics of the compan MoreThe authors studied and analyzed various concepts and approaches to company value management. They described the advantages and disadvantages of the leading traditional approaches to assessing the value of an enterprise and proposed a model of the dynamics of the company's value, taking into account the ownership structure, explaining the mechanism of the influence of the company's ownership structure on the capital structure. Using an example, we examined the change in the company's value by individual factors and identified which factors have the most significant positive and negative impact. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
169 - A Weight-Analysis Technique of Existing Research on E-Government Implementation Challenges in Developing Countries
Mosleh Zeebaree Musbah AqelThe e-government application may enhance government facilities for its shareholders. Nevertheless, implementing such system faces many difficulties and obstacles. The considerable debacle of e-government inspires studies on those obstacles, especially in developing coun MoreThe e-government application may enhance government facilities for its shareholders. Nevertheless, implementing such system faces many difficulties and obstacles. The considerable debacle of e-government inspires studies on those obstacles, especially in developing countries around the world. To examine the e-government implementation challenges more accurately, we have collected more than 50researchesreleasedafter 2010from various and multiple database sources such as IEEE Explore, Science Direct, Emerald, and Springer Link. For accomplishing our study, we have adhered to scientifically accepted top practices for researchers. According to the instructions, we have developed study objectives, in the mean time; we have used a method depending on certain criteria to achieve our study objectives. In the process of researching, we have demonstrated that there is lack of familiarity of the term e-government and there are obstacles associated with the application of an electronic system. There is a clear difference regarding the challenges hindering the implementation of an electronic government in underdeveloped nations, and these challenges differ from one country to another according to the location, culture, infrastructure, and organization conditions, in addition to social and political obstacles.the study found that the most important challenges facing the governments in implementing e-government are summarized in the organizational, political, social, and infrastructure challenges.this research aims to accomplish a thorough analysis of findings reported in the published studies regarding the challenges facing the implementation of e-government in developing countries. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
170 - Optimal Use of Social Media From the Perspective of Brand Equity in Startups with a Data Approach
Akram Ghelichkhan Sina Nematizadeh Hamid reza Saeednia Seyed Kamran NourbakhshThe purpose of this study is to identify the effective factors of optimal use of social media in the brand equity of startup companies. To this end, the researcher collected the required data using snowball sampling, protocol design, and exploratory interviews with sixt MoreThe purpose of this study is to identify the effective factors of optimal use of social media in the brand equity of startup companies. To this end, the researcher collected the required data using snowball sampling, protocol design, and exploratory interviews with sixteen university experts, the industry in this field, and senior managers of accelerator companies and startups. Maxqda 18 software was used to analyze the interviews. In the open coding process, the researcher first identified 170 codes and categorized them into 8 categories. Then, based on the theoretical literature and using the opinion of academic experts in axial coding based on Strauss and Corbin paradigm model, the relevant model was extracted and finally the selective coding was performed. To evaluate the validity of coding, Peer check method, the member check method and reliability by Field note were conducted. The results indicate that the main phenomena is using social media in startups and the communicational dimension as causal factors, cognitive dimension, and attitude in the position of strategies, brand characteristics as background factors, relational dimension, and rules and regulations as intervening factors and finally behavioral dimension were obtained as the consequences of the model. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
171 - The Influence Of The Gross Regional Product On The Formation Of The Financial Potential Of The Region
Davydenko Nadiia Dibrova Anatolii Onishko Svetlana Fedoryshyna LidiiaThe relevance of the research topic is due to the fact that in the current economic conditions, the availability of sufficient financial resources in the regions of Ukraine is a prerequisite for the formation of their strong financial potential and the basic basis for e MoreThe relevance of the research topic is due to the fact that in the current economic conditions, the availability of sufficient financial resources in the regions of Ukraine is a prerequisite for the formation of their strong financial potential and the basic basis for ensuring sustainable economic development of the regions. Therefore, the issues of shaping and enhancing the financial capacity of the region, as well as improving the efficiency of the use of available resources, are of particular importance today. In the work a comparative analysis of the dynamics of the financial potential of the region with the help of statistical-accounting and indicative methods is carried out.in the process of research, scientific methods were used: induction and deduction - in assessing the volume of financial potential and its effectiveness; statistical analysis - in the process of analyzing the financial potential of the region; economic and mathematical modeling - to substantiate strategic directions of formation of financial potential of the region. The result of the study is clearly defined tendencies of economic development of the regions of Ukraine on the basis of their financial potential and reasons for deepening differentiation of development. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
172 - Intellectual Capital of Institutions of Higher Education in the Knowledge Economy
Yaroslav Kichuk Valentyna Kunchenko-Kharchenko Nataliia Hrushchynska Yuliia Zhukova Olena YarishTo determine the directions of managing the intellectual capital of a university, the authors studied the impact of the knowledge economy on the education sector, analysed the most prestigious international rankings of universities and their criteria and methodologies, MoreTo determine the directions of managing the intellectual capital of a university, the authors studied the impact of the knowledge economy on the education sector, analysed the most prestigious international rankings of universities and their criteria and methodologies, assessed the current state and prospects of Ukrainian universities in global rankings. The study of theoretical developments has proven the importance of the intellectual capital of the university and its ability to increase the competitive advantages of universities. Authors proposed the mechanism of institutions of higher education intellectual capital management in the knowledge economy, which provides a synergistic effect of all components of intellectual capital and will increase the competitive advantages of Ukrainian universities. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
173 - Innovative Instruments and Legal Mechanisms of Bank Capitalization: National Features and World Trends
Viktoriia Vovk Yuliia Zhezherun Liudmyla Gudz Oleksandr PerederiiThe article investigates the role of bank capital in financing reproduction processes and increase of economic growth indicators, considers the essence of the concept of “bank capitalization”, determines the structure and main sources of bank capital increas MoreThe article investigates the role of bank capital in financing reproduction processes and increase of economic growth indicators, considers the essence of the concept of “bank capitalization”, determines the structure and main sources of bank capital increase. Taking into account the fact that Ukraine and Poland have similar vectors of economic development, the current practices of increasing the bank capitalization, as well as the peculiarities of the action of the governments of the two countries in the negative financial and economic crisis, positive and negative aspects of regulatory policies aimed at restoring financial stability and resistance of the banking sector of Ukraine and Poland have been identified. The study of legal aspects of regulating the capitalization of banks allowed to generalize the requirements for the level of capitalization by the central banks of Ukraine and Poland, as well as to determine the features of regulating the capital adequacy of banks by supervisors in the context of Basel III. The structure and dynamics of the capital of banks of Ukraine and Poland during 2012-2019 have been analyzed. The relationship between the level of capitalization and the level of economic development of the country has been revealed. The peculiarities of the recapitalization of banks with the participation of the state have been clarified. The main attention has been paid to the complex analysis of the experience of capitalization of Polish banks, and the ways of its use in Ukraine have been substantiated. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
174 - Improvement of Land Management in Ukraine
Skliar Yurii Bohinska Liudmyla Kapinos Nataliia Prokopenko Nataliia< p>Successful implementation of land reform requires the implementation of large-scale market transformations, in particular in the structure of land tenure and land use, in the field of land valuation. The article is devoted to the development of scientific and More< p>Successful implementation of land reform requires the implementation of large-scale market transformations, in particular in the structure of land tenure and land use, in the field of land valuation. The article is devoted to the development of scientific and methodological bases of economic evaluation and use of land resources of agricultural enterprises, substantiation of approaches and recommendations for improvement of ecological, economic and institutional principles of land development in the conditions of new land relations. The economic mechanism of realization programs of protection and reproduction land resources is developed. Mandatory monitoring lands of agricultural significance is proposed in order to identify degradation processes, negative changes in soil condition, development of a long-term forecast of agricultural land use. Due to the fact that the state does not carry out strategic management of land resources, the rate of land degradation is growing, actions to increase soil fertility is not planned. One of the main method of monitoring land resources can be the observation of changes in their condition in the long run using five- and ten-year cycles. It is proposed to move to annual monitoring, which allows to identify the main trends in land use and apply the results to the planning and management of land potential of the country, region, company. The results of monitoring of agricultural land resources in general can be an information base for the characteristics of arable land, which can be used for the purposes of internal land management, implementation of measures to optimize land use, as well as to improve the regulatory assessment of land. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
175 - Strategic Management of the Investment Process in the Agricultural Sector (for Example, Agricultural Enterprises and the Food Industry)
Sergii Zakharin Svitlana Stoyanova-Koval Iryna Kychko Viktoriya Marhasova Iryna ShuptaThe article presents the results of a study of the nature and characteristics of investment processes in the agricultural sector (by the example of agriculture and food industry in Ukraine), as well as recommendations on the modernization of the mechanisms for strategic MoreThe article presents the results of a study of the nature and characteristics of investment processes in the agricultural sector (by the example of agriculture and food industry in Ukraine), as well as recommendations on the modernization of the mechanisms for strategic management of these processes. It is noted that the restoration and development of Ukraine is possible on the basis of the effective development of agricultural entrepreneurship, which can be achieved through the use of a set of interrelated measures of a financial, economic, industrial, technical, organizational and social nature, aimed at the withdrawal of such anti-crisis and restoration organizations or their achievement profitability and competitiveness. The state policy for the development of agricultural enterprises should provide for the creation of a favorable investment climate for domestic and foreign investment. The authors note that in modern conditions of development of the national macroeconomic environment, the solution of this problem involves not only the development and formulation of market strategies, but primarily the solution to the problem of creating and implementing an effective mechanism for implementing intra-industry strategic decisions. At the same time, it should be taken into account that many issues of the formation and implementation of the state policy for regulating the development of agricultural enterprises in the face of institutional uncertainty and financial instability have not yet received adequate coverage. the authors concluded that direct government subsidies for agribusiness in Ukraine are harmful. They are distributed opaque, distort competition, produce corruption and nervousness. As a result, the interest of diligent agricultural producers is declining. Corruption and opacity lead to an unreasonable increase in prices for agricultural products. Based on the analysis, it is shown that the best way of state support for agricultural production is investment in rural areas - an increase in investment costs for roads or education in rural areas. It should also be taken into account that one of the tasks of state policy is to increase employment in rural areas, therefore it is necessary to support not only individual producers, but also “non-agricultural” employment, for example, “green tourism”. Also, government support should be distributed “automatically”, and not selectively. For this, it is important to develop and implement appropriate criteria. the economic security of economic entities in the agricultural sector should be the subject of an economic strategy in the food industry. The reduction or exclusion of business entities from participation in many areas of intra-industry life creates enormous economic risks (threats) for the near and long-term prospects of the food industry. Therefore, in order to ensure socio-economic development in the food industry, it is necessary to develop and introduce intra-industry socio-economic policies that will ensure the growth of key indicators in the national macroeconomic environment. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
176 - Presenting a Model of Customer Experience Management in Mobile Banking Industry for Commercial Banks Customers in Dubai
Maryam Abadi Hamidreza Saeednia Abbas KhorshidiThe current research has been conducted to provide a model for customer experience management in the mobile banking industry for customers of commercial banks in Dubai. An explorative mixed methods research (qualitative and quantitative) was used in the research. Data w MoreThe current research has been conducted to provide a model for customer experience management in the mobile banking industry for customers of commercial banks in Dubai. An explorative mixed methods research (qualitative and quantitative) was used in the research. Data were gathered in both qualitative phase (based on grounded theory) and quantitative phase (based on cross-sectional survey method). In the qualitative phase, population consisted of academic specialists and experts (university professors in the field of management) selected by judgmental sampling method of snowball sampling type. Data were gathered using a semi-structured interview. Data gathering reached theoretical data saturation in the twenty-fifth interview, so interviews were stopped at this point. The results of coding based on grounded theory led to the identification of 170 open codes, 24 axial codes, and 7 selective codes including value, cognitive, motivational, sensory, physical, behavioral, and communicative ones. In the quantitative phase, population consisted of 100,000 users (equal numbers of men and women) of mobile banking services. Given that the community variance was not available, Morgan and Krejcie table were used to determine the sample size that was calculated at 384 individuals. Data analysis in the quantitative phase confirmed the findings of qualitative research according to chi-square (x2), goodness of fit (GFI), adjusted goodness of fit (AGFI), and root mean squared error of approximation (RMSEA) indices. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
177 - Transformation of Household Credit Behavior in the Conditions of Digitalization of the Financial Services Market
Maksym Dubyna Artur Zhavoronok Nataliia Kudlaieva Inna LopashchukWithin the article, the impact of modern digitalization processes on changing household credit behavior is considered. Much attention is paid to defining the essence of digitalization and exploring the features of its impact on the financial services market. Accordingly MoreWithin the article, the impact of modern digitalization processes on changing household credit behavior is considered. Much attention is paid to defining the essence of digitalization and exploring the features of its impact on the financial services market. Accordingly, the content of household credit behavior and its individual models are examined. This behavior is proposed to be considered as a process of interaction between entities engaged in joint business activities with financial institutions regarding the receipt of temporary financial resources from banking and non-banking institutions with subsequent use to meet their own needs on terms of return, payment, expediency and security. Within the article, basic features that are inherent in both the classic model of obtaining credit services by clients of financial institutions and the new model of lending, which is formed today as a result of the impact of digitalization processes, are defined and systematized. Study of the results of the analysis of current trends in the development of the financial services market made it possible to identify main perspective directions for further transformation of credit household behavior, the process of lending and changing the paradigm of lending to financial institutions. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
178 - Forming the Territorial Communities' Local Budgets in Ukraine Under Decentralization: Current Condition and Management Tasks
Khrystyna Patytska Olena Panukhnyk Nazariy Popadynets Irina KramarenkoThe budgetary capacity with the tax component as its key aspect is the basis for forming local budgets of a territorial community. The paper outlines the methods for diagnostics of the budgetary capacity of territorial communities by revenues aimed at providing a compre MoreThe budgetary capacity with the tax component as its key aspect is the basis for forming local budgets of a territorial community. The paper outlines the methods for diagnostics of the budgetary capacity of territorial communities by revenues aimed at providing a comprehensive quantitative and qualitative assessment of the status, strengths, and weaknesses of the economy of an administrative-territorial unit and determining the place and role of the local budget in ensuring the socio-economic development of the territory. The main objectives of the suggested methods are to analyze local budget revenues, identify sources and patterns of their formation, study the structure of own revenues of community budgets, justify the dependence of the characteristics of local budgets forming in territorial communities on the level of their socio-economic development and management features. As a result of the conducted research, the problems of filling local budgets were identified, and directions of budgetary capacity increase were substantiated. Manuscript profile -
Open Access Article
179 - Population Spatial Mobility: Monitoring, Methodology of Formation, Features of Regulation
Mariana Bil Inna Irtyshcheva Nazariy Popadynets Dmytro VoitSpatial mobility is a topical concept of analytical migration science, which makes it possible to assess the desires, readiness and capabilities of the population to move over certain distances and time. In the management of spatial mobility assessment requires the orga MoreSpatial mobility is a topical concept of analytical migration science, which makes it possible to assess the desires, readiness and capabilities of the population to move over certain distances and time. In the management of spatial mobility assessment requires the organization of systematic monitoring, which includes identifying the mobility potential in spatial and temporal interpretation, the status of its implementation in migration and tourism directions, the causes of displacement with an assessment of the deprivation level, as well as the consequences of displacement, in particular in the context of achieving human development goals and capitalizing on human potential. The quality system of monitoring of population spatial mobility should be the basis for mobility regulation. The formation of such systems should be carried out in several stages: development of unified approach to the formation of accounting and mobility statistics; development of methodology and conducting selective sociological survey on the population spatial mobility with the participation of state statistics authorities and the International Organization for Migration (internal and external mobility); development of a indicators system for the monitoring of population spatial mobility in context of achieving human development goals. One of the main results of the monitoring of population spatial mobility is to find out the main groups of the potentially active population in the coordinates of space and time: internal mobility, including intra-settlement, intra-regional, inter-regional (the main purpose of regulation is the development of transport infrastructure); middle-distance mobility, including cross-border, intra-state (the main purpose of regulation is the effective use of migration capital and tourism costs); long-distance mobility, including continental, remote (the main purpose of regulation is to ensure circulating migration; keeping in touch through the Diaspora Institute). Formation of high-quality system of information support for migration regulation through the monitoring of population spatial mobility will allow to depart from the practice of biased accounting of migration processes with limited and non-systematic presentation of statistics. Manuscript profile