A bi-objective stochastic order planning problem in make-to-order multi-site textile manufacturing

Abstract

This study addresses a multi-site stochastic order planning problem with real-world features existing in make-to-order textile manufacturing supply chains widely. A mathematical model of the problem is presented with the consideration of uncertain orders and heterogeneous carbon emission levels of different plants. The problem aims at minimizing the total tardiness and the excessive carbon emissions. By combining a single-objective-guided multi-objective evolution algorithm and a scenario generation technique, a multi-objective evolutionary stochastic optimization approach is proposed to solve this problem. For the first time, the single-objective-guided multi-objective evolutionary algorithm is adapted to handle discrete optimization problems. The iterative scenario selection-based scenario generation approach is used in evaluating the candidate solutions to the problem with uncertain orders. Extensive experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach and the necessity of considering uncertain orders in real-world production planning.