Some applications of optimization routing problems with additional constraints

Abstract

The paper deals with an extremal routing problem with constraints. In the general formulation, it is assumed that the objects of visiting are any non-empty finite sets — megalopolises. The main applied problem considered in this study is the tool path optimization problem for CNC sheet-cutting machines, known as the Cutting Path Problem. This problem arises at the stage of developing control programs for CNC machines. Other applications are also possible. In particular, the results obtained in the chapter can be used in the problem of minimizing the radiation dose when dismantling a system of radiation-hazardous elements after accidents at nuclear power plants and in transport problems. Among tasks constraints, the precedence constraints are investigated. These constraints can be used to reduce computational complexity. As the main method, the study used broadly understood dynamic programming. The offered realization of the method takes into account the precedence constraints and the dependence of the objective functions on the task list. This dependence belongs to the class of very complex conditions that determine the route admissibility at each routing step, depending on the tasks already completed or, on the contrary, not yet completed. As applied to the Cutting Path Problem, the dependence of the objective function on the task list makes it possible to reduce thermal deformations of the material during cutting. The chapter provides a mathematical formalization of an extremal routing problem with additional constraints, a description of the method, and the exact algorithm obtained with its help. The order of task execution, the specific trajectory of the process, and the starting point are optimized.