Network Optimisation in Transport

Recommended Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of operations research (e.g. graph theory and mathematical models for solving decision-making problems.

Teaching Methods

Theoretical-practical classes combine oral exposition for the transmission of knowledge with learning by doing, through challenges posed to the students. Problem-solving, inspired by real-world applications, also features throughout the semester.

Learning Outcomes

Main goal: motivation for decision-making based on efficiency and rationality, and development of technical skills in mathematical modeling and optimization, for solving problems in networks, with application to transport systems.
Skills to be developed:
- Ability to participate in decision-making processes in the area of transport;
- Ability to represent network problems using mathematical models;
- Ability to solve problems using specialized algorithms and integer or mixed integer linear programming techniques.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1. Fundamentals of mathematical modelling in networks:
- Fundamental concepts about graphs and networks
- Types of network problems
- Mathematical models of linear programming in networks
- Solution methods (exact, specialized, heuristic)
2. Network flow problems: transportation and transhipment, shortest path, minimum cost network flow:
- Introduction, formulation, specialized algorithms
- Solution methods - specialized algorithms, Programming using software (FICO Xpress)
3. Network design problems:
- Introduction, formulation, specialized algorithms
- General solution methods - Programming using software (FICO Xpress)
4. Hub-and-spoke networks:
- Introduction, formulation, specialized algorithms
- General solution methods - Programming using software (FICO Xpress)
5. Routing problems: traveling salesman, vehicle routing:
- Introduction, formulation, specialized algorithms
- General solution methods - Programming using software (FICO Xpress)

Head Lecturer(s)

João Miguel Fonseca Bigotte

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Resolution Problems: 40.0%
Exam: 60.0%

Bibliography

Coutinho-Rodrigues, J. (2018), Aplicações da Teoria de Sistemas - 7ª edição, Ediliber, Coimbra, Portugal
Daskin, M.S. (2013), Network and Discrete Location: Models, Algorithms and Applications, Wiley, New York, USA.