Multi-objective optimization of post-disaster emergency resources scheduling using multiple ant colony systems optimization algorithm

Abstract

The multi-objective optimization mathematical model for post-disaster emergency resources scheduling was built. This model took into account multiple demand centers, multiple supply centers, multiple kinds of resources, and supply centers cooperating with each other in providing resources. The reliability of scheduling routes was taken into account to enhance the practicability. A new approach using multiple ant colony systems optimization algorithm was proposed to solve the model. The elitist strategy was imported into the global pheromone update strategy to guide exchanging and sharing information among multiple ant colony systems, and it improved the efficiency in searching global no-inferior solutions. It provided a practical approach to integrate resources location-allocation problem and scheduling routes planning problem together. The case was presented to verify the validity of the model and algorithm. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2013.