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31 October 2016, Volume 19 Issue 5 Previous Issue    Next Issue

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Optimizing Blood Collection with Substitution against Blood Shortage ZHOU Yufeng1，MA Zujun2 2016, 19 (5):  1-9.  Abstract ( 668 )   Save  Blood collection optimization against scarce blood shortage is studied. In the case of severe blood shortage, blood group substitution is an important emergency strategy, which has an effect on the decision of blood collection. By analyzing the effect of blood group substitution on blood inventory control and considering stochastic demand, service level, as well as the inventory relationship between blood center and hospitals, an optimization model for blood collection was developed to minimize the expected total system cost, which includes the inventory cost at blood center and hospitals, and penalty costs due to blood group substitution, of the optimal supply shortage, and blood shortage at hospitals. The model is described as a discrete nonlinear mixed integer programming model. According to the characteristics of the proposed model, an accurate algorithm is designed. The results of a numerical example show that the expected total sys-tem cost is reduced by 74.67%. So, the optimization of blood collection with blood group substitution can alleviate blood shortage and improve the supply of scarce blood. References | Related Articles | Metrics

A Comparative Study of Human Effectiveness of Large-scale Multi-channel Contact Center Based on Simulation LI Junxiang，TIAN Chen 2016, 19 (5):  10-15.  Abstract ( 712 )   Save To compare the differences of human effectiveness between contact center and call center that were caused by the variety of communication channels, the models of single channel call center, two-channel contact center, and three-channel contact center were established with the Extendsim simulation software. Three indices, which are average waiting time, agent occupancy rate and the total number of customers, were selected to evaluate human effectiveness. The differences of the indices between different models were compared by changing agent numbers. The results show that compared with the single channel call center, the multi-channel contact center (especially the three-channel contact center) requires fewer agents. For the three-channel contact center, the average waiting time is reduced by 46.16%, the agent occupancy rate is reduced by 6.95% and the total number of customers is increased by 5.58% when the agent number is the same in the three-type contact centers. So the multi-channel contact center can increase human effectiveness, decrease the labor costs and improve the service level by adding reasonably communication channels. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Improvement Research of Human Factors on CRH  Seats LIU Lizhuo, FANG Xingxiang, ZHAO Yige 2016, 19 (5):  16-23.  Abstract ( 728 )   Save Taking CRH seats as research object, Human Factors as theoretical basis, and Jack software as research tool, CRH seats are studied while digital human set up and the problems found by comfort experiments. The results show that passengers' comfort can be significantly improved by redesigning seat height, seat angle and backrest height. References | Related Articles | Metrics

A Fuzzy Multi-objective Optimization Model for Distribution Center Location Based on Grey Clustering Evaluation LI Zhi1, JIANG Zhou2, ZHOU Yufeng1 2016, 19 (5):  24-32.  Abstract ( 750 )   Save A logistics system has distribution centers as its key nodes, and the rationality of distribution centers location decision is of great value. The location of multidistribution centers is studied integrating multiattribute decision making method and optimization method. Firstly, the candidate locations are evaluated based on grey clustering decision. Then, three objective functions are considered as follows, to minimize the total logistics cost, to maximize the capacity utilization and mean evaluating scores of open distribution centers. Besides, a distribution center location model in three echelon supply chain system is built considering fuzzy demands and capacity constraints. This model is depicted as a mixed integer nonlinear programming model. Using chance constrained programming to clear the fuzzy demand, the problem is transformed into a single objective problem based on target weighting. Lastly, a numerical example is given to verify the feasibility of the proposed model. In reliability, satisfactory results can be obtained according to the weight preference of the decision makers. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Scheduling in Multiple Aisles by Single Stacker Based on Hybrid Algorithm XIA Li1，HOU Shiwang2，LIU Jun3 2016, 19 (5):  33-38.  Abstract ( 660 )   Save To solve order picking path planning problem with a stacker in AS/RS of multi aisles, a mathematical model is established in order to minimize the total running distance of stacker for some given orders considering the constraints of turnover box capacity for stacker. Then the model is solved using a new algorithm combining GA with SA. Finally, for a same application case, GA, SA and hybrid algorithm of SA and GA are designed and simulated in Matlab environment. The results illustrate that the hybrid algorithm overcomes the prematurity of GA (Genetic Algorithm) and the slow convergence speed of SA (Simulated Annealing). The result of the proposed approach is more accurate, more stable and faster in convergence than a single algorithm. The hybrid algorithm proves feasible and efficient. References | Related Articles | Metrics

A Fuzzy Resource-constrained Project Scheduling Problem Based on the -Chaotic Differential Evolution Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm HE Lihua, MA Fangli 2016, 19 (5):  39-44.  Abstract ( 681 )   Save A resource-constrained project scheduling problem with fuzzy activity times is studied. By using a fuzzy maximum operator based on measuring interval number distance to compare fuzzy activity times of a project, the proposed method overcomes the shortage of existing works which did not consider the facts that the critical path may change in case of fuzzy activity times. Accordingly, the fuzzy scheduling time of each activity and the shortest fuzzy completion time of the project may also change owing to the changed critical path. Meanwhile, a hybrid particle swarm optimization algorithm based on chaos and differential evolution is introduced to deal with this problem. Furthermore, the inertia weight of the introduced hybrid particle swarm optimization algorithm is improved to solve the above problem. Finally, an example is illustrated to prove the effectiveness of the established model and proposed method. References | Related Articles | Metrics

A Two-stage Robust Optimization Model for Emergency Facility Location Problems under Uncertainties DU Bo, ZHOU Hong 2016, 19 (5):  45-50.  Abstract ( 874 )   Save For emergency logistics management, decision making of supply distribution facility location is important. According to the uncertainties in emergencies, a two-stage robust optimization model for emergency facility location problems to achieve coordination between “pre-location” and “re-location” is proposed. In the first stage when demand, cost and facility disruption is uncertain, in the consideration of different needs of pre-disaster planning, post-disaster response and facility re-location, a robust “pre-location” model is presented based on p-center model. In the second stage, with the acquisition of post-disaster information, a “relocation” model for building new facilities is presented based on reactive repairing and adjustment for previous strategies. A numerical study shows the model is more effective than traditional p-center model for emergency facility location. References | Related Articles | Metrics

A Study of Metamodeling of Twomachine Systems Based on Datadriven Simulation Technique XIA Beixin, CHEN Xin, WEI Xin 2016, 19 (5):  51-57.  Abstract ( 663 )   Save It is a difficult task to analyze the performance of complex manufacturing systems like semiconductor assembly and testing systems. To fulfill the task, an efficient approach to develop a twomachine metalmodel based on simulation model as well as an approximate analytical method for large systems based on the developed metalmodel is proposed. A study of metamodeling of twomachine systems is carried out by using datadriven simulation technique in order to find out a fast and accurate method to build the metalmodel. Twomachine systems taking into account transfer delays in buffers are taken as a research object. To obtain cases for artificial neural network, secondary development based on ARENA is made to automatically configure and run simulation models and gather statistics. Three typical artificial neural networks for function approximation (BP, RBF and Chebyshev) are compared and optimized. The experiment results show that RBF model with 120 spread is the best. The low rate of error of that model indicates that it is accurate enough to be the building block of approximate analytical methods for the analysis of large systems. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Quality Control and Coordination in Elderly Service Supply Chain Based on Bonus and Penalty Dual Contract ZHANG Zhiyong, LV Jiaxin, SHI Yongqiang 2016, 19 (5):  58-64.  Abstract ( 1141 )   Save Equilibrium is analyzed from three different scenarios of separate decision, united decision and bonus and penalty dual contract based on the Elderly Service Supply Chain (ESSC) between one elderly service integrator (ESI) and one elderly service supplier (ESS) with a single and homogeneous elderly service need. The promotion of bonus and penalty dual contract to the elderly service quality decision and the profits of the supply chain members are also studied. The results show that the possibility of providing high quality elderly service will increase by improving the integration of the ESSC and when the change of the demand scale is sensitive to the service quality improvement, bonus and penalty contract can get better coordination effect. In addition, if the ESI is at the core position of the ESSC, when the ESI and the ESS reach bonus and penalty contract providing high quality elderly service, the ESI would obtain most of the increased profit. References | Related Articles | Metrics

EOQ Models for Multi-inventory Systems Considering Defective Items and Carbon Emissions KANG Kai, ZHAO Jinghuan, ZHANG Jing, ZHANG Weicun 2016, 19 (5):  65-72.  Abstract ( 650 )   Save With regard to multiinventory systems in supply chain, the EOQ models for multiinventory systems considering defective items and carbon emissions and constitution functions of inventory holding cost, ordering cost, transportation cost and inspection cost are constructed, and the economic order quantity and inventory control strategy of supply chain considering defective items and carbon emissions provided. And examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of these models. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Remanufacturing Closed-loop Supply Chain Models by Applying RFID to Increase Recovery Rate YANG Aifeng, WAN Si, LIU Lin, HU Xiaojian 2016, 19 (5):  73-79.  Abstract ( 661 )   Save In the remanufacturing closedloop supply chain practices, recycling used products is a critical activity, and is also a difficult point. The technology of radio frequency identification (RFID) is introduced into the recycling activities of waste products, assuming that it can increase the recycling rate while taking corresponding costs. In order to compare the effects before and after using RFID, both centralized and decentralized supply chain models are created with different participants in waste product collection. And the impacts of scaling parameter for additional increased recovery rate with RFID, RFID tag cost and fixed cost on the pricing decisions and the profits of participants in different models are all analyzed. References | Related Articles | Metrics

A Research on Closed-loop Supply Chain Network Design and Resilient Management Based on Patent Protection FANG Hanwei1，CHEN Kebing2 2016, 19 (5):  80-87.  Abstract ( 640 )   Save Due to problems in network design and resilient management of closed-loop supply chain, an integrative framework is established, integrating resilient member selection/pre-warning/manufacturing and recycle/resilient inventory operation/resilient congestion delay/resilient transportation. Then a competitive multisourcing network with resilient management is established based on a general operational model of supply chain. According to the potential risk of the various distributors' failure, a multiplesource closed-loop supply with resilient management is made use of. It is found that the benefit of manufacturer S1 with patent protection will be impacted by the change of multi-level expectation tolerance, but can be improved by the redesigned prewarning security. References | Related Articles | Metrics

A Study of the Effect of Agricultural Insurance on the Supply Chain of Fresh Agricultural Products CAO Wujun， CHEN Zhifei 2016, 19 (5):  88-98.  Abstract ( 645 )   Save In our country the fresh agricultural products are easy to be affected by natural risks, and partnership is not stable. By constructing the supply chain profit model under natural risks and agricultural insurance, the coordination role of the twopart tariff system on the supply chain and its influence on the members' cooperation are studied. Then the agricultural insurance setting and compensation mechanism are discussed with a comparative analysis of the effect of agricultural insurance on the stability of the supply chain profit and a member of the partnership. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the model results and give the decision. Research shows that the twopart tariff under natural risks can coordinate fresh agricultural products supply chain, but the supply chain cooperation relationship is not stable; and that the introduction of agricultural insurance can not only effectively manage natural risks, but also increase the revenue of the whole supply chain and various members; and that with the rise of coefficient of natural disasters, the supply chain partnership stability under agricultural insurance of fresh agricultural products will decline, but compared with the supply chain system under natural risks, the stability is higher. References | Related Articles | Metrics

A Research on Retailers′ Decision-making and Value of Prepayment Financing DONG Zhenning, WANG Zhuo, CHEN Yan 2016, 19 (5):  99-105.  Abstract ( 693 )   Save According to the prepayment financing model and in a supply chain that lacks capital, a bilayer structure is established that contains Manufacturers (M) and Retailers (R). This structure is a simple supply chain decision model without considering the defective product rate, inventory cost and financing cycle length. When market demand is uncertain and retailers face capital constraint, and retailers adopt the prepayment financing, the quantity of order will change, and the profit of either manufacturer or retailers will also change. Through comparing the order quantity and the expected return when the retailer has different quantity of funds under the condition of finance and the value of the order quantity of the retailer's own capital with cycle, it is indicated that the retailer's financing and ordering decision will change with the changes of its own fund and the market demand. And it is verified that the financing can increase the revenue of the retailer and supply chain, and can bring as soon as possible an optimal yield of the total supply chain product and effectively meet the consumer demand. References | Related Articles | Metrics

A Reconfigurable Medical Value Chain Knowledge Model -Based on Semantic Bill of X LI Congdong1,2, CHEN Hairong1, XIE Tian3 2016, 19 (5):  106-114.  Abstract ( 632 )   Save To reduce the “Deviation between Price and Value (DPV)” of the value carriers of the medical value chains, and to achieve formal knowledge expressing and reconstructing, from the view of value “formingflowingobtainingrealizing” processes, a closed loop model is constructed for analyzing the medical value chain system. Based on this model and S-BOX model, the medical value chain system structures and operation mechanisms are respectively transformed into ontology structure bills and semantic rules, and then the S-BOX based reconfigurable medical value chain system knowledge model is constructed. Furthermore, the reasoning results denote that the DPVs of medical value chain nodes can be effectively calculated. And then with the DPVs, the value chains can be improved and reconstructed for controlling the pharmaceutical price intelligent.  References | Related Articles | Metrics

A Grey Target Cluster Decision Model on Termination Decision for R & D Projects GUO Qian，WU Sheng，FU Zhuo，CHEN Si 2016, 19 (5):  115-120.  Abstract ( 665 )   Save Termination decision for R & D project is a vital part in the process management for enterprises to improve the allocation of resource and increase their efficiency. According to the essence of fuzzy multi-criteria sorting decision in this problem, fuzzy set theory and grey target theory are utilized to construct an optimization model. By solving this model, attributes weights and sorting thresholds are obtained to calculate the targetcenter distance of the remaining projects, which determine the fittest class of the remaining projects according to their corresponding intervals. An application example of the proposed method is provided to demonstrate its rationality and feasibility. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Risk Modeling and Analysis Based on Causal Bayesian Network: A Case Study YANG Min1, WANG Zhuwei2, WANG Yanmei3, CHEN Xu4 2016, 19 (5):  121-127.  Abstract ( 767 )   Save In order to validate the CBNbased RMA method proposed in article [1], four common patterns are first introduced to simplify the structure modeling of the method, which will reduce the effort of experts judgement in subsequent parameter modeling, and then the improved method is applied in risk analysis of NeelumJhelum hydropower station tunneling project in Pakistan. As a result, the contractors control effectively the project risks and obtain much more revenue than expected. This case shows that improved CBNbased RMA method has easy operability and will significantly enhance the efficiency of engineering risk management. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Evaluating Knowledge Sharing Risk in the Service-oriented Manufacturing Cluster Based on the EBP Model LIAO MengJie, ZHANG Jian, HE Qiong 2016, 19 (5):  128-137.  Abstract ( 687 )   Save In contrast with traditional manufacturing cluster, the process of knowledge sharing within serviceoriented manufacturing cluster is analyzed and the three knowledge sharing risks i.e. the relationship risk, the interests risk and the knowledge sharing capacity risk, are identified. Then, an EBP risk measurement model integrating entropy method with BP(back propagation) neural network method is established in order to evaluate the knowledge sharing within serviceoriented manufacturing cluster. Finally, an empirical study is conducted to prove the validity and rationality of the measurement model. The result indicates that the EBP risk measurement model is of higher prediction performance contrasted with BP neural network model, which is helpful for efficient decision making concerning knowledge sharing risk management. References | Related Articles | Metrics

A Multi-objective Order Decision Model with a Weighted Sum Algorithm YANG Man, WANG Chuanxu, XU Lang 2016, 19 (5):  138-145.  Abstract ( 767 )   Save ）〖JZ)〗〖WT5HZ〗Abstract： 〖WTBZ〗A model is proposed taking into account the link between an inventory policy (EOQ), total carbon emissions, and both price and environmental dependent demands. A multiobjective optimization model is developed, in which both carbon emissions minimization and manufacturers profit maximization are achieved. In this model, carbon emissions of manufacturer is not merely linearly related with the order quantity of goods, which shows that transport and warehouse operations generate large amounts of carbon emissions. The weighted sum algorithm is presented to solve the proposed model. The carbon tax's influence on the multiobjective decisionmaking is analyzed. It is shown that under different membership weights, order quantity, demand and carbon emissions have different change trends, which indicates that carbon tax will effectively reduce total carbon emissions. On the one hand, for an environmentally aware company, the government should take the policy of reducing carbon tax; on the other hand, to reduce carbon emissions, the government should increase carbon tax of some companies whose main motivation is profit. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Product Manufacturing Process Quality Variation Source Interpretative Structural Modeling and its Application WANG Bangjun1，2, LI Runqi2, DAI Wei3, SHE Yuanguan1 2016, 19 (5):  146-152.  Abstract ( 688 )   Save Based on the analysis of the mode of variation transmission and accumulation, and the relationship between variation factors in manufacturing processes, the topological structure is simplified as a directed graph and adjacency matrix using graph theory method, and steps of variation source interpretative structural modeling are presented, which provides an engineering application case study of establishing adjacency matrix based on causality diagram, calculating the reachable matrix based on Boolean algebra method, establishing quality variation source interpretative structure modeling, and determining improved priorities and providing technical proposals. References | Related Articles | Metrics

Decision of EPQ Model under Learning Effect of Productivity and Quality Inspection FU Kaifang， CHEN Zhixiang 2016, 19 (5):  153-158.  Abstract ( 676 )   Save The EPQ (economic production quantity) model of learning effect in the process of production and quality inspection is extended. The production process is not perfect, and quality defects will be produced. On the basis of constant demand, a cost function model of the learning effect in the process of production and quality screening is established, and the solution is solved by Newton method. Numerical and sensitivity analyses show that, along with the advance of production, in the early stages of production, the average production time of the unit product decreases rapidly with the increase of productivity, but the optimal production time tends to be stable in the later stage. With the increase of learning coefficient, the optimal production time decreases slowly; with the increase of the quality screening coefficient, the optimal production time increases slowly; with the increase of the defect rate, the optimal total average cost increases quickly. The conclusion provides the basis for the optimal decision. References | Related Articles | Metrics