Abstract

Abstract
This paper presents a very special cutting path determination problem appearing in a high precision tools factory, and provides two new heuristics for its resolution. Particular features of both the cutting process, and of the material to be cut, bring in a set of unusual constraints, when compared with other cutting processes, which confer additional complexity and originality to the problem. In particular, this is a matter of practical and economic relevance, since the solution methods are intended to be implemented in a real-life industrial environment. The concept of dynamic graph is exploited to deal with the arc routing problem under study, which is modelled as a dynamic rural postman problem. The constructive heuristics developed, the "higher up vertex heuristic" (HUV) and the "minimum empty path heuristic" (MEP) are tested with real data sets.

Abstract
In production planning in the glass container industry, machine-dependent setup times and costs are incurred for switch overs from one product to another. The resulting multi-item capacitated lot-sizing problem has sequence-dependent setup times and costs. We present two novel linear mixed-integer programming formulations for this problem, incorporating all the necessary features of setup carryovers. The compact formulation has polynomially many constraints, whereas the stronger formulation uses an exponential number of constraints that can be separated in polynomial time. We also present a five-step heuristic that is effective both in finding a feasible solution (even for tightly capacitated instances) and in producing good solutions to these problems. We report computational experiments.

Abstract

Abstract
The development of information and communication technologies determined enterprises to adapt their way of undertaking business, from traditional practices to e-business. In this context, achieving seamless interoperability among heterogeneous entities becomes a critical issue. The goal of this article is to present an innovative two-layered operational infrastructure aiming at achieving seamless interoperability in shoe manufacturing up-stream segment, developed within the scope of CEC-made-shoe European Integrated Project.

Abstract
Economic factors and developments of information and communication technologies have forced SMEs to engage in new organizational structures. The emergent process oriented collaborative networks require integration between distributed and heterogeneous infrastructures. The aim of this article is to present the approach for business process integration and management developed for the footwear sector within the scope of an EU project. Lessons learned and an agenda for future research work are then described. A brief overview of relevant enabling technologies is also made.