Optimization-Based Dispatching Policies for Open-Pit Mining

We propose, implement, and test two approaches for dispatching trucks in an open-pit mining operation. The first approach relies on a nonlinear optimization model that incorporates queueing effects to set target average flow rates between mine locations. The second approach is based on a time-discretized mixed integer programming (MIP) model. The MIP model is difficult … Read more

Zero Order Stochastic Weakly Convex Composite Optimization

In this paper we consider stochastic weakly convex composite problems, however without the existence of a stochastic subgradient oracle. We present a derivative free algorithm that uses a two point approximation for computing a gradient estimate of the smoothed function. We prove convergence at a similar rate as state of the art methods, however with … Read more

A relative-error inertial-relaxed inexact projective splitting algorithm

For solving structured monotone inclusion problems involving the sum of finitely many maximal monotone operators, we propose and study a relative-error inertial-relaxed inexact projective splitting algorithm. The proposed algorithm benefits from a combination of inertial and relaxation effects, which are both controlled by parameters within a certain range. We propose sufficient conditions on these parameters … Read more

Safe screening rules for L0-Regression

We give safe screening rules to eliminate variables from regression with L0 regularization or cardinality constraint. These rules are based on guarantees that a feature may or may not be selected in an optimal solution. The screening rules can be computed from a convex relaxation solution in linear time, without solving the L0 optimization problem. … Read more

A Robust Rolling Horizon Framework for Empty Repositioning

Naturally imbalanced freight flows force consolidation carriers to reposition resources empty. When constructing empty repositioning plans, the cost of repositioning resources empty needs to be weighed against the cost of corrective actions in case of unavailable resources. This is especially challenging given the uncertainty of future demand. We design and implement a robust rolling horizon … Read more

Integrated Pricing and Routing on a Network

We consider an integrated pricing and routing problem on a network. The problem is motivated by applications in freight transportation such as package delivery and less-than-truckload shipping services. The decision maker sets a price for each origin-destination pair of the network, which determines the demand flow that needs to be served. The flows are then … Read more

Learning Optimal Classification Trees: Strong Max-Flow Formulations

We consider the problem of learning optimal binary classification trees. Literature on the topic has burgeoned in recent years, motivated both by the empirical suboptimality of heuristic approaches and the tremendous improvements in mixed-integer programming (MIP) technology. Yet, existing approaches from the literature do not leverage the power of MIP to its full extent. Indeed, … Read more

A Hybrid Gradient Method for Strictly Convex Quadratic Programming

In this paper, a reliable hybrid algorithm for solving convex quadratic minimization problems is presented. At each iteration, two points are computed: first, an auxiliary point $\dot{x}_k$ is generated by performing a gradient step equipped with an optimal steplength, then, the next iterate $x_{k+1}$ is obtained through a weighted sum of $\dot{x}_k$ with the penultimate … Read more

Optimal Residential Coordination Via Demand Response: A Distributed Framework

This paper proposes an optimization framework for retailers that are involved in demand response (DR) programs. In a first phase responsive users optimize their own household consumption, characterizing not only their appliances and equipment but also their comfort preferences. Then, the retailer exploits in a second phase this preliminary non-coordinated solution to implement a strategy … Read more

A decomposition resolution approach for a production inventory- distribution-routing problem

The aim of this study is to develop a solution to the problem of distribution of goods proposed by the Mathematical Competitive Game 2017-2018, jointly organized by the French Federation of Mathematical Games and Mathematical Modelling Company. Referred to as a production-inventory-distribution-routing problem (PIDRP), it is an NP-hard combinatorial optimization problem, which received the least … Read more