Materials supply optimization given solution-dependent operator walking distances

We study the decision to supply parts to an assembly line either in bulk or in kits. The cost model used to optimally assign all parts to one of both materials supply systems takes into account that a solution, i.e. a specific assignment of all parts, has an effect on the average operator walking distance to pick from the border of line. This latter dependency turns the model into a nonlinear mixed integer programming model. A solution methodology and results are discussed.

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