To address the complexities of managing networks of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and Just-in-Time problem solving, this study introduces a cutting-edge multi-objective location-routing optimization model. This model integrates time window constraints, concurrent pick-up and delivery demands, and rechargeable battery functionality, significantly enhancing the efficiency of UAV operations. It reduces battery consumption and transportation costs while optimizing delivery times and reducing operational risks. The model improves the refinement of delivery schedules by accounting for uncertain traffic scenarios, thereby increasing its accuracy and reliability in dynamic environments. Additionally, a Bayesian belief networks approach for risk assessment introduces a new layer to operational risk management. The model’s performance and its trade-offs are demonstrated through advanced data visualizations such as 3D Pareto fronts, pair plots, and network graphs, with validation via the NSGA-II approach confirming its reliability and practical applicability. This research represents a major leap forward in drone routing strategies, focusing on efficiency, adaptability, and risk management in UAV logistics and provides a comprehensive framework that bridges the gap between theoretical exploration and practical application.
1 November 2020 in Simulation Modelling Practice and Theory
In the oil and gas industry, adopting policies that can reduce the negative environmental effect is vital. Environmentally Sustainable Supply Chain Management (ESSCM) is an approach to carrying out Supply Chain Management (SCM) in an eco‐friendly manner and according to environmental requirements. There are different environmental policies that companies can apply based on their resource availability. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the impact of hard dimensions on Environmentally Adaptive (EA) and Mitigated Adverse Eco‐Effect (MAE) policies in the oil and gas industry. To rank the data, Bayesian Best‐Worst Method (BWM) and Ordinal Priority Approach (OPA) have been applied. Cause‐and‐effect relationships are then calculated by employing the Decision‐Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) technique. The results indicate that the ranking of the hard dimensions varies based on the companies' business policies and their new product/technology development projects. In other words, the findings of this research demonstrate that ‘innovation’ is the crucial dimension in companies that are focussed on developing eco‐friendly products while ‘technologies for cleaner production’ is the most important dimension in the companies attempting to reduce destructive consequences on the environment. In both types of the company policies, ‘lean manufacturing’, ‘total quality management’, and ‘institutional pressures’ are the key dimensions for a successful implementation of ESSCM while the least important dimensions include ‘supplier relationship management’, ‘green purchasing’, and ‘green logistics’. The findings of this research can assist the decision‐makers in the oil and gas sector in prioritising and identifying the interrelationship of the dimensions that significantly impact the ESSCM.