Two-Layer Location-Routing Problem Based on Heuristic Hybrid Algorithm

Abstract

Location-routing problem (LRP) thoroughly considers location allocation problem (LAP) and vehicle routing problem (VRP) which has been an integral part applied in modern logistics. A number of researchers at home and aboard have put forward their views by establishing fine models. On the basis of studying the previous research results by classification, summary, and comparative analysis, this study hence proposes a new solution-fuzzy clustering model and algorithm to resolve two-layer location-routing problem based on a heuristic hybrid algorithm: Designing a hybrid genetic and simulated annealing algorithm (GASA) to optimize the initial value of the fuzzy C-means clustering algorithm (FCM); considering the roving visit characteristics of vehicles to design the path by employing a special VRP problem—the multiple traveling salesman problem (MTSP). Theoretical analysis and experimental results show that the algorithm used in this study has the advantages of fast convergence speed and less iterations, which significantly improve the quality of the initial solution of FCM in LAP, shorten the vehicle patrol cycle in VRP to a great extent, improve the vehicle utilization, and save the vehicle patrol costs. A specific example is programmed by MATLAB to verify the feasibility of this method.