Research projects
Optimization of logistic processes with computational intelligence
There are many intelligent methods proposed in the literature, and each of them has its own advantage, so after classifying and evaluating them it is vital to determine their possible usability for logistic tasks. The tools must be improved either by extending the original model, or redefining the restrictions and premises. In some cases the restructured model requires new solutions in technical terms, thus adequate methodology must be developed and tested in order to improve the efficiency. The special features of road transportation and supply chains encourage to modify of the classical operational research models concerning logistics (travelling salesman problem, Chinese postman problem, vehicle routing problem, bin-packing problem, assignment problem etc.) eliminating or relaxing most of the original constraints, but making the problem even more complicated in some sense. Solutions in the literature are mostly devoted to the classical problems, so after redefining these models novel approaches have to be proposed.
The approximations of fuzzy arithmetic operators require relatively large computational effort and resources. Soft computing applications set different requirements regarding the representation of uncertain fuzzy values. These requirements are based on the nature of uncertainty and fuzziness, and the characteristics and features of applied algorithms must be assessed as well. Evolutionary methods are widely adopted means of population based metaheuristics, which have the ability to perform robust search on a discrete problem space, which very often arises in logistic optimization. The effectiveness of these methods can be improved by selecting appropriate search strategies and fitness function. Concerning the fitness function, the main focus is on the performance differences when it comes to the fuzzy and crisp versions of fitness calculations.
Research of construction processes to improve logistics and IT characteristics – adaptation and implementation of analogies in distribution and production logistics
Our task in the joint research with the Budapest University of Technology and Economics was to establish connection between logistics and construction processes. The analogies of production logistics can be implemented and adapted to construction logistics problems. After the literature review the possible use of QFD method in the construction industry was researched. Based on the previous research topics of the department we suggested the use of artificial intelligence methods for solving construction logistics related problems as well.
In the next phase we analyzed the possible use of state-of-the-art production logistics methods in the construction industry.
In the last part of the research we modelled the supply system of a construction site with computer aided routing.
Development of testing and design methodologies, to be able to apply environmental friendly cushioning material, considering logistic requirements.
The aim of this research is to investigate those design, analysis and testing methodologies, which are able to give a support to the packaging industry (as a packaging material user). By using these methods, the constructed and designed product – packaging systems will be able to pass the continuously changing logistic expectations and more and more strict environmental regulations. The main task of the project was to determine those external factors and parameters – based on statistical data – which cause an increase in packaging material demand. Those regulations, rules, directives, which appeared to effect quantity and quality of packaging materials, as a waste has been determined and analyzed.
The part of the research was the analysis of an environmental friendly hygroscopic material to examine the mechanical properties and move damping characteristic how change by the logistic environment variations.