BASF uses a framework for developing web-based production-planning-optimization tools

Abstract

We developed a computational framework for delivering practical production-planning-optimization tools on BASF Intranet. The framework enables users with Web browsers to access complex optimization tools to interactively compute optimal production plans on any computer platform. We formulated a MILP (mixed-integer linear programming) production-planning-optimization model for one of BASF's chemical manufacturing plants and built a generic infrastructure for integrating optimization engines and the Internet using server-side Java programming. This framework has changed the way BASF implements and deploys mathematical modeling tools.