The CMU Process Scheduling Optimizer
About
The CMU Process Scheduling Optimizer (CMUPSO) is an online tool that allows users to define instances of process scheduling optimization problems, formulate them as deterministic mixed-integer optimization models, and solve them using state-of-the-art optimization solvers. The tool further allows users to characterize the applicable variability of their problem's parameters in the form of an applicable uncertainty set, and to solve the resulting process scheduling under uncertainty optimization problems via the methodology of Adjustable Robust Optimization.
Process Scheduling
Process scheduling refers here to the decision-making procedure that determines the short-term allocation of the available production resources so as to meet production objectives in multipurpose, batch-processing production facilities. Facilities of this type are commonly utilized in a variety of industries that produce chemicals, metals, semiconductors, food, and pharmaceuticals, among other products. Process scheduling constitutes a complex combinatorial optimization problem, which generalizes many other classes of well-known, stylized scheduling optimization problems inasmuch as it contemplates networked production environments that handle batches of continuous sizes that can be merged, split, and recycled. Typical objectives include (i) the maximization of profit throughout a given (finite) time horizon, and (ii) the minimization of the makespan to produce a given amount of product(s). Constraints that need to be satisfied include adhering to the applicable production recipe, equipment limitations, material storage policies, and limits on the consumption of utilities. For a more formal definition of the problem, please consult one of our papers on the topic and references therein.
Getting Started
New users must create an account by clicking "Register" at the top-right of the page. The automatic registration process requires a ".edu" email address. If you do not have one, please send us a message using the Contact Form, and we will be able to accommodate.
Development Team
Acknowledgements
The CMU Process Scheduling Optimizer was developed in the context of a research project funded by the National Science Foundation (grant CBET-1510787).
