Determining Optimal Distribution Route on the Supply Chain Network using Genetic Algorithm.

Abstract

In the past few years, the Supply Chain Network (SCN) field has gained more attention due to the competition which is introduced by the market globalization. Distribution network design is one of the most comprehensive and strategic decision problem that need to be optimized for efficient operation on the supply chain field. The distribution network design establishes distribution channels, determines the amount of materials and items to consume, and also ships the product from suppliers to customers. The optimal distribution depends on the optimal route, which is influenced by the distance and the distribution time. This paper presents a genetic algorithm approach to determine optimal distribution route. Genetic algorithm was implemented to search the optimal route from the start point to the destination point. Priority-based chromosomes (strings) and their genes (parameters) were used to encode the problem. Weight Mapping Crossover and Swap Mutation were used as genetic operator, while the selection method used was roulette wheel. The algorithm was tested in a road map containing 44 nodes and from the experiments, we could conclude that the genetic algorithm system design worked well to solve the optimation problem. Keywords: Supply Chain Network, Genetic Algorithm, distribution route.