Theoretical framework for formulating MIP scheduling models with multiple and non-uniform discrete-time grids

We present a framework for the formulation of MIP scheduling models based on multiple and nonuniform discrete time grids. In a previous work we showed that it is possible to use different (possibly non-uniform) time grids for each task, unit, and material. Here, we generalize these ideas to account for general resources, and a range of processing characteristics such as limited intermediate storage and changeovers. Each resource has its own grid based on resource consumption and availability allowing resource constraints to be modeled more accurately without increasing the number of binary variables. We develop algorithms to define the unit-, task-, material-, and resource-specific grids directly from problem data. Importantly, we prove that the multi-grid formulation is able to find a schedule with the same optimal objective as the discrete-time single-grid model with an arbitrarily fine grid. The proposed framework leads to the formulation of models with reduced number of binary variables and constraints, which are able to find good solutions faster than existing models.     

亲子乐园空调送风方式的数值模拟研究

大型综合室内亲子乐园属于高大空间,设有游乐设施和游戏的特殊性使得对空间的舒适性要求一致,但是送风气流遇阻严重,室内存在较多气流死角,影响室内空气质量和儿童健康。因此其空调设计不仅需要考虑温度、风速的空间均匀度,还要考虑各点的空气龄和PMV-PPD指标。以天津某亲子乐园为研究对象,利用scSTREAM软件对适用于该房间的辐射供冷加新风、置换通风、混合通风三种空调方式的送风效果进行数值模拟分析,从流场的均匀性、人员的热舒适性等方面对模拟结果进行探讨,研究结果表明辐射供冷加新风方式的空间均匀性和PMV指标最佳,混合通风方式的空气龄最小。     

Supply chain planning and scheduling integration using Lagrangian decomposition in a knowledge management environment

The integration of planning and scheduling decisions in rigorous mathematical models usually results in large scale problems. In order to tackle the problem complexity, decomposition techniques based on duality and information flows between a master and a set of subproblems are widely applied. In this sense, ontologies improve information sharing and communication in enterprises and can even represent holistic mathematical models facilitating the use of analytic tools and providing higher flexibility for model building. In this work, we exploit this ontologies’ capability to address the optimal integration of planning and scheduling using a Lagrangian decomposition approach. Scheduling/planning sub-problems are created for each facility/supply chain entity and their dual solution information is shared by means of the ontological framework. Two case studies based on a STN representation of supply chain planning and scheduling models are presented to emphasize the advantages and limitations of the proposed approach.     

Heavy rare earths,permanent magnets,and renewable energies: An imminent crisis

This article sounds the alarm that a significant build-out of efficient lighting and renewable energy technologies may be endangered by shortages of rare earths and rare earth permanent magnets. At the moment, China is the predominant supplier of both and its recent rare earth industrial policies combined with its own growing demand for rare earths have caused widespread concern. To diversify supplies, new mining—outside of China—is needed. But what many observers of the “rare earth problem” overlook is that China also dominates in (1) the processing of rare earths, particularly the less abundant heavy rare earths, and (2) the supply chains for permanent magnets. Heavy rare earths and permanent magnets are critical for many renewable energy technologies, and it will require decades to develop new non-Chinese deposits, processing capacity, and supply chains. This article clarifies several misconceptions, evaluates frequently proposed solutions, and urges policy makers outside of China to undertake measures to avert a crisis, such as greater support for research and development and for the cultivation of intellectual capital.     

水利规划生态适宜性研究

选择生物丰度指数、植被覆盖指数、水资源指数、土地退化指数、污染负荷指数5类基本因子，组成生态适宜性评价指标，评价值在0．067-1．500之间变化，对结果进行再处理、聚类，划分毗河供水规划的生态适宜分区。结合区域生态、环境特征和要求，对水利规划作出相应的调整。毗河供水规划整体布局较合理，大型建设项目未处于生态需特别保护的区域。各水库农业灌溉的同时，也能发挥生态功能，为周围环境提供用水，对区域生态与环境有促进作用。     

An experimental and numerical study of hunting in thermostatic-expansion-valve-controlled evaporators

The dynamic behaviour of a thermostatic-expansion–valve (TEV)-controlled dry-evaporator is studied experimentally and numerically. Although the linear model of the TEV together with the distributed model of the evaporator is able to predict the stable dynamic response of the system adequately, it fails to reproduce the hunting behaviour that is observed under certain operating conditions. A scrutiny of the experimental data reveals the possible existence of hysteresis in the system. The distributed model including the experimentally determined input-output characteristics of the TEV is able to reproduce the main features of the hunting oscillations well. The amplitude and frequency of these oscillations depend on the static superheat setting, the heat load of the evaporator and the time constant of the TEV bulb.     

具有大电流输出能力的开关电源

本文介绍大电流输出的开关电源芯片MAX1623的特点，设计原理和典型应用电路。     

Reverse logistics network design with stochastic lead times

This work is concerned with the efficient design of a reverse logistics network using an extended version of models currently found in the literature. Those traditional, basic models are formulated as mixed integer linear programs (MILP-model) and determine which facilities to open that minimize the investment, processing, transportation, disposal and penalty costs while supply, demand and capacity constraints are satisfied. However, we show that they can be improved when they are combined with a queueing model because it enables to account for (1) some dynamic aspects like lead time and inventory positions, and (2) the higher degree of uncertainty inherent to reverse logistics. Since this extension introduces nonlinear relationships, the problem is defined as a mixed integer nonlinear program (MINLP-model). Due to this additional complexity, the MINLP-model is presented for a single product-single-level network. Several examples are solved with a genetic algorithm based on the technique of differential evolution.     

A multi-criterion interaction-oriented model with proportional rule for designing supply chain networks

Supply chain management has offered a way to improve the industrial environment becomes more competitive. While, the commonly seen methodologies may be effective in solving the production–distribution problem only from supplier- or customer-oriented consideration, those cannot present the interactive relationship between upstream and downstream enterprises. In the competitive semiconductor industry environment, considering the viewpoints of the supplier and consumer simultaneously is particularly required, because multiple manufacturing and demanding steps are performed at separate situations, concurrently. In this paper, we propose an interaction-oriented approach, which bases on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) methodology and proportional rule, to solve the semiconductor distribution problem with multiple quantitative and qualitative criteria. The developed approach gives an expected satisfaction for the all participators of the whole chain while the cooperative information is shared perfectly and effectively. Analysis results demonstrate the proposed methodology is efficient and effective through a real world case study.