A hybrid multi-level ant colony optimization framework for integrated production scheduling and vehicle routing.

ABSTRACT: This study investigates the integrated scheduling of production and distribution within a time-sensitive supply chain at the operational level. In addition, the study specifically focuses on parallel machine scheduling and vehicle routing problem with time windows (VRP-TW) while considering flexible departure times. A hybrid multi-level optimization (HMLO) framework is developed, decomposing the problem into two primary phases: parallel machine scheduling and distribution scheduling. The initial phase entails the establishment of a comprehensive production schedule, whereas the subsequent phase focuses on segmenting the orders into batches and developing a complete distribution schedule. The framework incorporates the ant colony system (ACS) within the HMLO structure to optimize distributi

SUBMITTER: Ashour M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12644912 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature