In this paper we consider the solution methods for mixed-integer linear fractional programming (MILFP) models, which arise in cyclic process scheduling problems. We first discuss convexity properties of MILFP problems, and then investigate the capability of solving MILFP problems with MINLP methods. Dinkelbach's algorithm is introduced as an efficient method for solving large scale MILFP proble...

Trajectory planning for a heavy-duty mining truck near the loading/dumping sites of an open-pit mine is difficult. As opposed to trajectory small-sized passenger car in parking lot, involves complex factors vehicle kinematics and environment. These make concerned scheme mixed-integer nonlinear program (MINLP) incorporated with conditional constraints (denoted as C-MINLP). MINLP solvers can neit...

In this work we describe a conceptual approach which has been recently developed to design efficient decentralized control structures for flexible chemical plant operation. The approach combines concepts from thermodynamics, inventory networks and process control to construct a set of stable and robust decentralized control candidate structures. Such candidates consist of inventory control loop...

This short communication presents a generic mathematical programming formulation for Computer-Aided Molecular Design (CAMD). A given CAMD problem, based on target properties, is formulated as a Mixed Integer Linear/Non-Linear Program (MILP/MINLP). The mathematical programming model presented here, which is formulated as an MILP/MINLP problem, considers first-order and second-order molecular gro...

MINLP problems are hard constrained optimization problems, with nonlinear constraints and mixed discrete continuous variables. They can be solved using a Branch-and-Bound scheme combining several methods, such as linear programming, interval analysis, and cutting methods. Our goal is to integrate constraint programming techniques in this framework. Firstly, global constraints can be introduced ...

This paper focuses on the collision-free coordination of multiple robots with kinodynamic constraints along specified paths. We present an approach to generate continuous velocity profiles for multiple robots; these velocity profiles satisfy the dynamics constraints, avoid collisions, and minimize the completion time. The approach, which combines techniques from optimal control and mathematical...

This paper focuses on the coordination of multiple robots with kinodynamic constraints along specified paths. The presented approach generates continuous velocity profiles that avoid collisions and minimize the completion time for the robots. The approach identifies collision segments along each robot’s path and then optimizes the motions of the robots along their collision and collision-free s...

This paper treats the solution of nonlinear optimization problems involving discrete decision variables, also known as generalized disjunctive programming (GDP) or mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) problems, that arise in process engineering. The key idea is to eliminate the discrete decision variables by adding a set of continuous variables and constraints that represent the discrete...