Batch process schedule optimization under parameter volatility

A general strategy to treat the uncertainties in parameters of batch process scheduling has been developed. The strategy consists of three algorithms: flexible planning, flexible scheduling and reactive schedule adaptation. In this paper, we introduce the flexible scheduling and the reactive schedule adaptation algorithms. The flexible scheduling algorithm is based on both a Monte Carlo simulation and a simulated annealing. It can deal with multiple uncertain parameters and any type of probability density function for the uncertain parameter. We seek the flexible schedule that maximizes the expected profit, including net present values of products less raw material and processing costs, as well as due date penalties, inventory costs and setup costs. In reality, the values of uncertain parameters always change after the batch process schedule and plan are set up. Since the flexible schedule has periods of free time that can be used to accommodate uncertainties during the actual production, the reactive schedule adaptation algorithm can modify the flexible schedule in response to any change in an uncertain parameter with little or no penalty. This algorithm finds a new optimal or suboptimal solution under the new condition by using a combination of different local search methods, which are described.