Possibilistic compositions and state functions: application to the order promising process for perishables. Issue 22 (17th November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Grillo, H.; Alemany, M.M.E.; Ortiz, A.; De Baets, B.
• Is Part Of: International journal of production research. Volume 57:Issue 22(2019)
• Page Start: 7006
• Page End: 7031
• Publication Date: 2019-11-17
• Subjects: composition of possibilistic variables -- state function -- ageing function -- order promising process -- perishability -- lack of homogeneity in the product -- uncertainty; Factory management -- Periodicals; 658.57
• DOI: 10.1080/00207543.2019.1574039
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0020-7543

Abstract

Abstract : In this paper, we propose the concepts of the composition of possibilistic variables and state functions. While in conventional compositional data analysis, the interdependent components of a deterministic vector must add up to a specific quantity, we consider such components as possibilistic variables. The concept of state function is intended to describe the state of a dynamic variable over time. If a state function is used to model decay in time, it is called the ageing function. We present a practical implementation of our concepts through the development of a model for a supply chain planning problem, specifically the order promising process for perishables. We use the composition of possibilistic variables to model the existence of different non-homogeneous products in a lot (sub-lots with lack of homogeneity in the product), and the ageing function to establish a shelf life-based pricing policy. To maintain a reasonable complexity and computational efficiency, we propose the procedure to obtain an equivalent interval representation based on α -cuts, allowing to include both concepts by means of linear mathematical programming. Practical experiments were conducted based on data of a Spanish supply chain dedicated to pack and distribute oranges and tangerines. The results validated the functionality of both, the compositions of possibilistic variables and ageing functions, showing also a very good performance in terms of the interpretation of a real problem with a good computational performance.