Fuzzy Multi-Objective, Multi-Period Integrated Routing–Scheduling Problem to Distribute Relief to Disaster Areas: A Hybrid Ant Colony Optimization Approach

Abstract

This paper explores a multi-objective, multi-period integrated routing and scheduling problem under uncertain conditions for distributing relief to disaster areas. The goals are to minimize costs and maximize satisfaction levels. To achieve this, the proposed mathematical model aims to speed up the delivery of relief supplies to the most affected areas. Additionally, the demands and transportation times are represented using fuzzy numbers to more accurately reflect real-world conditions. The problem was formulated using a fuzzy multi-objective integer programming model. To solve it, a hybrid algorithm combining a multi-objective ant colony system and simulated annealing algorithm was proposed. This algorithm adopts two ant colonies to obtain a set of nondominated solutions (the Pareto set). Numerical analyses have been conducted to determine the optimal parameter values for the proposed algorithm and to evaluate the performance of both the model and the algorithm. Furthermore, the algorithm’s performance was compared with that of the multi-objective cat swarm optimization algorithm and multi-objective fitness-dependent optimizer algorithm. The numerical results demonstrate the computational efficiency of the proposed method.