Construction of a simulation model for the transportation of perishable goods along variable routes

Abstract

The object of research is the system of organization of transportation of perishable goods. The study subject is the technological process of transportation of perishable goods by small shipments. The problem solved was a multicriteria optimization of the technological process of delivery of perishable goods by small shipments. The results are the built simulation model for the distribution of small consignments of perishable goods and the optimization according to the criterion of minimizing delivery time while limiting the rational use of available vehicles. To construct a simulation model, discrete-event and agent-based principles were used. The model built combines the solution to the transport problem and the traveling salesman problem simultaneously with taking into account the stochastic duration of technological operations. When forming the distribution route, the model algorithm takes into account the minimum allowable batch size to the i-th destination, which allows each time to build a new unique route of the vehicle. Unlike existing ones, the model constructed allows taking into account the peculiarities of the distribution network, the minimum consignment of cargo, and dynamically changing the route in accordance with the available cargo. Each time the cargo mass arrives at the logistics terminal, the condition of a sufficient quantity of goods intended for delivery to points of sale is checked. If the quantity of cargo sufficient for shipment is equal to the capacity of the car body, a new information message is generated on the availability of goods ready for shipment. Scope and conditions of practical use of the obtained results include transport companies, retail chains, distribution logistics