ROMJIST Volume 21, No. 4, 2018, pp. 392-405
Mehmet KARALI Development of a fuzzy logic-based loading algorithm in the selection of the most appropriate cargo package for cleaning and cosmetic products
ABSTRACT: Minimum space and maximum capacity based loading algorithms or software products for in-container parcel loading or in-box product placement are very common. These software products, when desired to be used for placing cleaning and cosmetics products in cargo packages, have a number of special constraints and related challenges. Breakage, disintegration or spillage can occur in products that are not placed properly during transportation and transferring of the cargo packages. For some products; there are constraints such as horizontal placement is not allowed, another product cannot be placed on top of them, or tightly placement cannot be done. On the other hand, for some products, there is freedom to put them in every cavity because of their flexible structure. Due to these constraints and freedoms, the placement algorithm needs to have product-based flexibility. In this study, cleaning and cosmetic products which have special restrictions and freedoms are taken as the primary targets. An algorithm has been developed that optimizes the placement of these products in the package. The algorithm is run and tested using the Excel database and macro code. The algorithm is integrated into a private company product line. Thanks to this software automation, which is developed to make package selection at the right size, 14,4 % monthly cargo charge and 10 % labor savings are obtained. KEYWORDS: Container loading problem, Fuzzy logic optimization, Container loading algorithmRead full text (pdf)