Vehicle routing problem optimization with flexsim using GIS

[Wesleygmp]

[ FlexSim 23.1.3 ]

Firstly, I would like to express my sincere gratitude in advance for the assistance offered by the esteemed members of this forum, as well as the creator of the Flexsim software. Consequently, I would like to address some challenges related to vehicle routing optimization. To begin with, the model features a flow process for item loading, which creates items in the 3D model. This loading process is controlled by a global table named "gt_Pedidos". Additionally, within this model, there are three cities: the source city, named "Sorocaba," and the destination cities, named "Itu" and "Tatui," all created within the 3D model. The truck collection process is carried out through a flow process that utilizes dates to collect items in specific cities. The collection is being performed based on a list. However, the current list is organized in ascending order, following an alphabetical list of cities. At this point, a specific question arises: How can I implement vehicle routing in this process? Does Flexsim provide an algorithm for vehicle routing problems? If so, which one? If not, should I pursue an approach outside of Flexsim? Furthermore, if no such algorithm exists, are there alternative methods to address the vehicle routing problem? Attached is the current model for further investigation.

[julie_weller]

Hey Wesley! Your post reminded me of this example by one of my co-workers!

https://answers.flexsim.com/articles/124294/a-supply-chain-model-that-uses-mixed-integer-progr.html

He uses mixed integer programming to choose the best supply routes. That post might be a good place to get you started.

[lucas_klein83QQC]

Hi Wesley.

Wich routing problems specifically are you facing? Depending on the kind of problem, you can implement some logical decisions in a ProcessFlow, using the tables as input, or external logics that can handle with the information of your model to make decisions in your logistic flow. In the example mentioned by @Julie Weller above you can find how you can integrate Python with FlexSim for that kind of purposes.

[natalie_white]

Hi @Wesley GMP, was your question resolved?

If you still have questions, add a comment and we'll continue the conversation.