Distribution network optimization in the uniform rental industry
Name
928939179-MIT.pdf
Description
Full printable version
Size
4.83 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
1e29ba514a0db03852c0d8316c48695c
Author(s)
Chopyak, Ann-Marie
Lee, Haotian
Advisor(s)
Bruce C. Arntzen.
Date Issued
2015
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
Optimization models are a commonly used tool to identify cost efficient network flows. Complexity increases when various products move across different paths and transportation modes within one network. To address the challenges posed by this complexity, this thesis develops a mixed integer linear programming model for a uniform rental company. The company's product families are routed through intermediary distribution centers, while others bypass these points and move directly to a regional distribution center. Various simulations were run with the objective of minimizing fixed costs, warehousing, inventory and transportation expenses. The function was constrained by flow balance, demand and capacity constraints. The optimal solution proposed a network that used less facilities than currently operated within the company, and some in new locations due to transportation cost savings. As volume increased, the network structure continued to shift further from the company's current structure. Demand increased the influence of variable rates, while transportation lane rates were a significant factor in every version of the model run.
Description
Thesis: M. Eng. in Logistics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Engineering Systems Division, 2015.
Cataloged from PDF version of thesis.
Includes bibliographical references (pages 41-42).
Subjects
Engineering Systems Division.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Engineering Systems Division
Terms of Use
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