A Solution on Product Distribution Problem amongst Distribution Units with Various Utility Parameters

Abstract

Nowadays it is not enough to supply products based on customer's preference, and both manufacturers and distributors must have excellent order fulfillment. Leading manufactures and distributors are embracing a variety of new logistical techniques and closely managing their suppliers in order to improve the fulfillment. They should work to optimize the flow of goods and services through their organizations, from the delivery of a supplier's source materials to the product's final disposal. In this paper a new concept based on multi-agent paradigm, such as contract-net and market oriented programming, is introduced so as to facilitate appropriate order fulfillment. Simulation results indicate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm and detect further research subjects.