Generalized disjunctive programming model for the multi-period production planning optimization: An application in a polyurethane foam manufacturing plant

A Generalized Disjunctive Programming (GDP) model for the optimal multi-period production planning and stock management is proposed in this work. The formulation is applied to a polyurethane foam manufacturing plant that comprises three stages: a first step that produces pieces with certain characteristics, a second process that involves the location of these pieces in a limited area and a third stage where pieces are stored in dedicated spaces. This article shows the GDP capabilities to provide a qualitative framework for representing the problem issues and their connections in a natural way, especially in a context where decisions integration is required. Due to the multi-period nature of the planning problem, a rolling horizon approach is suitable for solving it in reasonable computing time. It serves as a tool for analyzing the trade-offs among the different costs. Through the examples, the capabilities of the formulation and the proposed resolution method are highlighted. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.