Optimization of routing problems in manufacturing supply

Abstract

The optimal design of a suitable material supply process is important for the continuous, smooth operation of manufacturing processes, which includes the transportation and handling of work pieces, components, tools, equipment, pallets, packaging materials, and measuring instruments. The most common form of implementation of these material handling processes, especially in mass production, is the milkrun supply. In this paper, the author presents a method to optimise the milkrun material supply processes in manufacturing. The author gives a brief overview of research results related to milkrun-based material supply solutions. An Excel Solver-based optimization method is presented that is suitable to support the design of an optimal material supply process in any manufacturing environment by determining optimal material supply routes and optimal number of milkrun trolleys, depending on the supply demand, location of warehouse and manufacturing cells and the capacity of the milkrun trolleys.