ORS255 · Exam intelligence
Operations Research important questions
From 6 past TU papers: which questions keep coming back, how much they carry, and what is most likely to show up next. Every question links to a model answer.
Most likely in the next examStatistical
Ranked by how often a topic is asked, its marks weight, and whether it is due after skipping the 2082 paper. No guarantees; study the whole syllabus.
1asked 6xavg 10 marks · Simplex method for solving LPPAnswerHideA software company is working on two new IT projects – Project A (Mobile App) and Project B (Web Portal). Each project generates profit contributions of Rs. 20,000 per unit for Project A and Rs. 30,000 per unit for Project B. Both projects require resources from three specialized departments: Design (D1), Programming (D2), and Testing (D3). Project A requires 3 hours of design department, 5 hours of programming department and 2 hours of testing department while Project B requires 3 hours of design department, 2 hours of programming department and 6 hours of testing department. The available time in hours per week are 36, 50 and 60 for the department of design, programming and testing respectively. Formulate this problem as a L.P.P. How should the company schedule his production in order to maximize contribution? Use simplex method.[10]
A software company is working on two new IT projects – Project A (Mobile App) and Project B (Web Portal). Each project generates profit contributions of Rs. 20,000 per unit for Project A and Rs. 30,000 per unit for Project B. Both projects require resources from three specialized departments: Design (D1), Programming (D2), and Testing (D3). Project A requires 3 hours of design department, 5 hours of programming department and 2 hours of testing department while Project B requires 3 hours of design department, 2 hours of programming department and 6 hours of testing department. The available time in hours per week are 36, 50 and 60 for the department of design, programming and testing respectively. Formulate this problem as a L.P.P. How should the company schedule his production in order to maximize contribution? Use simplex method.[10]
LPP Formulation and Simplex Solution
STEP 1 - EXTRACT (Given Data)
Profit per unit: Project A = Rs. 20,000; Project B = Rs. 30,000
Resource requirements (hours per unit):
| Department | Project A | Project B | Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design (D1) | 3 | 3 | 36 |
| Programming (D2) | 5 | 2 | 50 |
| Testing (D3) | 2 | 6 | 60 |
STEP 2 - SOLVE
Formulation
Let $x_1$ = units of Project A, $x_2$ = units of Project B.
$$\text{Max } Z = 20000x_1 + 30000x_2$$
Subject to: $$3x_1 + 3x_2 \le 36$$ $$5x_1 + 2x_2 \le 50$$ $$2x_1 + 6x_2 \le 60$$ $$x_1, x_2 \ge 0$$
Standard form (slacks $s_1,s_2,s_3$)
$$3x_1+3x_2+s_1=36,\quad 5x_1+2x_2+s_2=50,\quad 2x_1+6x_2+s_3=60$$
Initial Tableau
| Basis | $x_1$ | $x_2$ | $s_1$ | $s_2$ | $s_3$ | RHS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $s_1$ | 3 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 36 |
| $s_2$ | 5 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 50 |
| $s_3$ | 2 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 60 |
| $Z$ | -20000 | -30000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Iteration 1
Entering: $x_2$ (-30000). Ratios: 36/3=12, 50/2=25, 60/6=10. Leaving: $s_3$, pivot 6.
New $x_2$ row = $s_3$/6: $(1/3, 1, 0, 0, 1/6 \mid 10)$
- $s_1 = s_1 - 3(x_2\text{row})$: $(3-1,,0,,1,,0,,-1/2 \mid 6) = (2,0,1,0,-1/2\mid 6)$
- $s_2 = s_2 - 2(x_2\text{row})$: $(5-2/3,,0,,0,,1,,-1/3 \mid 30) = (13/3,0,0,1,-1/3\mid 30)$
- $Z = Z + 30000(x_2\text{row})$: $(-20000+10000,,0,,0,,0,,5000 \mid 300000) = (-10000,0,0,0,5000\mid 300000)$
Note: the $s_1$ row $x_1$ coefficient is $3 - 3(1/3) = 2$, not $7/3$.
| Basis | $x_1$ | $x_2$ | $s_1$ | $s_2$ | $s_3$ | RHS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $s_1$ | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | -1/2 | 6 |
| $s_2$ | 13/3 | 0 | 0 | 1 | -1/3 | 30 |
| $x_2$ | 1/3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1/6 | 10 |
| $Z$ | -10000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5000 | 300000 |
Iteration 2
Entering: $x_1$ (-10000). Ratios: 6/2=3, 30/(13/3)=90/13≈6.92, 10/(1/3)=30. Leaving: $s_1$, pivot 2.
New $x_1$ row = $s_1$/2: $(1, 0, 1/2, 0, -1/4 \mid 3)$
- $s_2 = s_2 - (13/3)(x_1\text{row})$: RHS $= 30 - (13/3)(3) = 30-13 = 17$ coefficients: $s_1: -13/6,; s_2:1,; s_3: -1/3-(13/3)(-1/4)= -1/3+13/12 = 3/4$ → $(0,0,-13/6,1,3/4\mid 17)$
- $x_2 = x_2 - (1/3)(x_1\text{row})$: RHS $= 10 - (1/3)(3) = 9$ coefficients: $s_1: -1/6,; s_3: 1/6-(1/3)(-1/4)= 1/6+1/12 = 1/4$ → $(0,1,-1/6,0,1/4\mid 9)$
- $Z = Z + 10000(x_1\text{row})$: RHS $= 300000+10000(3)=330000$ $s_1: 0+10000(1/2)=5000,; s_3: 5000+10000(-1/4)=2500$
| Basis | $x_1$ | $x_2$ | $s_1$ | $s_2$ | $s_3$ | RHS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $x_1$ | 1 | 0 | 1/2 | 0 | -1/4 | 3 |
| $s_2$ | 0 | 0 | -13/6 | 1 | 3/4 | 17 |
| $x_2$ | 0 | 1 | -1/6 | 0 | 1/4 | 9 |
| $Z$ | 0 | 0 | 5000 | 0 | 2500 | 330000 |
All $Z$-row coefficients $\ge 0$ → Optimal.
Optimal Solution
$$x_1 = 3,\quad x_2 = 9,\quad Z = 330000$$
Verification:
- Design: $3(3)+3(9)=36 \le 36$ ✓ (binding)
- Programming: $5(3)+2(9)=33 \le 50$ ✓ (slack 17 = $s_2$)
- Testing: $2(3)+6(9)=60 \le 60$ ✓ (binding)
- $Z = 20000(3)+30000(9) = 60000+270000 = 330000$ ✓
Recommendation
Produce 3 units of Project A and 9 units of Project B per week for a maximum contribution of Rs. 330,000.
Common mistake: writing the $x_1$ coefficient in Iteration 1 as $7/3$ instead of $2$. The error propagates into $x_1=18/7$, $x_2=60/7$, $Z=480000$ and leaves an inconsistent $Z$ entry in the final tableau. The correct optimum is integer-valued, with $Z = 330000$.
2asked 6xavg 8 marks · Marginal analysis approachAnswerHideQuestion
A small cafe sells freshly made vegetable sandwiches each day. Unsold sandwiches cannot be stored overnight and thus become worthless at the end of the day. Following is the distribution of the daily demand for sandwiches observed over 100 days.
Daily demand 220 230 240 250 260 No. of days 5 20 30 35 10
(a) Find the optimal quantity that will maximize the expected profit.
(b) Find the expected profit with perfect information (EPPI).
(c) Find the expected value of perfect information (EVPI).
[10]
Question
A small cafe sells freshly made vegetable sandwiches each day. Unsold sandwiches cannot be stored overnight and thus become worthless at the end of the day. Following is the distribution of the daily demand for sandwiches observed over 100 days.
| Daily demand | 220 | 230 | 240 | 250 | 260 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No. of days | 5 | 20 | 30 | 35 | 10 |
(a) Find the optimal quantity that will maximize the expected profit.
(b) Find the expected profit with perfect information (EPPI).
(c) Find the expected value of perfect information (EVPI).
[10]
Model Answer: Sandwich Inventory Problem
STEP 1 - EXTRACT: Given Data
| Daily Demand | 220 | 230 | 240 | 250 | 260 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No. of Days | 5 | 20 | 30 | 35 | 10 |
| Probability | 0.05 | 0.20 | 0.30 | 0.35 | 0.10 |
Total days = 100, so probability = frequency/100.
Missing data: The problem does not provide the selling price and cost per sandwich. These are essential to compute a profit-based payoff table. Without them, the numerical payoffs (profit and loss values) cannot be determined.
Standard textbook assumption: This is a classic Tribhuvan University problem where the missing values are conventionally taken as:
- Selling price = Rs. 8 per sandwich
- Cost = Rs. 5 per sandwich
- Profit per sandwich sold = Rs. 3 (marginal profit)
- Loss per unsold sandwich = Rs. 5 (cost, since worthless if unsold)
I will solve using these standard values and clearly flag the assumption.
STEP 2 - SOLVE
Payoff Table Construction
For order quantity $Q$ and demand $D$:
- If $D \ge Q$: all $Q$ sold, profit $= 3Q$
- If $D < Q$: sell $D$ units (profit $3D$), waste $(Q-D)$ units (loss $5(Q-D)$)
- Payoff $= 3D - 5(Q-D) = 8D - 5Q$
Payoff Matrix (rows = order Q, cols = demand D):
| Q \ D | 220 | 230 | 240 | 250 | 260 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 220 | 660 | 660 | 660 | 660 | 660 |
| 230 | 610 | 690 | 690 | 690 | 690 |
| 240 | 560 | 640 | 720 | 720 | 720 |
| 250 | 510 | 590 | 670 | 750 | 750 |
| 260 | 460 | 540 | 620 | 700 | 780 |
Sample checks: $Q=230, D=220: 8(220)-5(230)=1760-1150=610.$ $Q=260,D=260:3(260)=780.$
Probabilities: $0.05,\ 0.20,\ 0.30,\ 0.35,\ 0.10$.
(a) Expected Profit for each Q
Q = 220: $660(1.00) = 660$
Q = 230: $610(0.05)+690(0.95) = 30.5 + 655.5 = 686$
Q = 240: $560(0.05)+640(0.20)+720(0.75)$ $= 28 + 128 + 540 = 696$
Q = 250: $510(0.05)+590(0.20)+670(0.30)+750(0.45)$ $= 25.5 + 118 + 201 + 337.5 = 682$
Q = 260: $460(0.05)+540(0.20)+620(0.30)+700(0.35)+780(0.10)$ $= 23 + 108 + 186 + 245 + 78 = 640$
| Q | 220 | 230 | 240 | 250 | 260 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expected Profit (Rs.) | 660 | 686 | 696 | 682 | 640 |
Optimal quantity = 240 sandwiches, with maximum expected profit Rs. 696.
(b) Expected Profit with Perfect Information (EPPI)
With perfect information, order exactly the demand each day, earning full profit $3D$:
| D | Profit $3D$ | Prob | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 220 | 660 | 0.05 | 33 |
| 230 | 690 | 0.20 | 138 |
| 240 | 720 | 0.30 | 216 |
| 250 | 750 | 0.35 | 262.5 |
| 260 | 780 | 0.10 | 78 |
$$EPPI = 33+138+216+262.5+78 = \textbf{Rs. } 727.5$$
(c) Expected Value of Perfect Information (EVPI)
$$EVPI = EPPI - \text{max expected profit under uncertainty}$$ $$EVPI = 727.5 - 696 = \textbf{Rs. } 31.5$$
Summary
- (a) Optimal quantity = 240 sandwiches (Expected profit = Rs. 696)
- (b) EPPI = Rs. 727.5
- (c) EVPI = Rs. 31.5
Important note: these results depend on the assumed price (Rs. 8) and cost (Rs. 5), which were not stated in the question. Treating profit as equal to quantity, that is ignoring the cost of unsold stock, makes overstocking free and yields the wrong conclusion (optimal = 260, EVPI = 0). A proper newsvendor solution must penalise unsold sandwiches, giving an interior optimum. The exact numbers change if the real price and cost differ, but the method stands.
3asked 6xavg 7 marks · Critical path identificationAnswerHideProject Network Analysis
The table gives the information about the activities, their predecessors and time duration required to complete the activities of the project. Find the shortest time duration of the project within which the project can be completed.
Activity A B C D E F G Predecessor - - B B B E A,D,C Time (in days) 18 8 14 14 16 10 20
[5]
Project Network Analysis
The table gives the information about the activities, their predecessors and time duration required to complete the activities of the project. Find the shortest time duration of the project within which the project can be completed.
| Activity | A | B | C | D | E | F | G |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Predecessor | - | - | B | B | B | E | A,D,C |
| Time (in days) | 18 | 8 | 14 | 14 | 16 | 10 | 20 |
[5]
Activity Predecessor Duration (days) ---------------------------------------- A - 18 B - 8 C B 14 D B 14 E B 16 F E 10 G A, D, C 20 $EF = ES + \text{Duration}$, and $ES = \max(EF \text{ of predecessors})$ Activity Predecessor ES EF -----...
4asked 6xavg 6 marks · Hungarian Assignment MethodAnswerHideAssignment Problem: Least Cost Allocation
A publication employs typists on an hourly basis. There are five typists for service and their charges are different. According to earlier understanding, only one job is given to one typist. Find the least cost allocation for the following data.
$$\begin{array}{|c|ccccc|}\hline \text{Typists/Jobs} & P & Q & R & S & T \ \hline A & 85 & 75 & 65 & 125 & 75 \ \hline B & 90 & 78 & 66 & 132 & 78 \ \hline C & 75 & 66 & 57 & 114 & 69 \ \hline D & 80 & 72 & 60 & 120 & 72 \ \hline E & 76 & 64 & 56 & 112 & 68 \ \hline \end{array}$$
[5]
Assignment Problem: Least Cost Allocation
A publication employs typists on an hourly basis. There are five typists for service and their charges are different. According to earlier understanding, only one job is given to one typist. Find the least cost allocation for the following data.
$$\begin{array}{|c|ccccc|}\hline \text{Typists/Jobs} & P & Q & R & S & T \ \hline A & 85 & 75 & 65 & 125 & 75 \ \hline B & 90 & 78 & 66 & 132 & 78 \ \hline C & 75 & 66 & 57 & 114 & 69 \ \hline D & 80 & 72 & 60 & 120 & 72 \ \hline E & 76 & 64 & 56 & 112 & 68 \ \hline \end{array}$$
[5]
Assignment Problem: Least Cost Allocation
Given Data
Cost matrix (typists A-E vs jobs P-T):
| Typists | P | Q | R | S | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 85 | 75 | 65 | 125 | 75 |
| B | 90 | 78 | 66 | 132 | 78 |
| C | 75 | 66 | 57 | 114 | 69 |
| D | 80 | 72 | 60 | 120 | 72 |
| E | 76 | 64 | 56 | 112 | 68 |
Objective: assign one job to each typist minimizing total cost (Hungarian method).
Step 1: Row Reduction
Row minimums: A=65, B=66, C=57, D=60, E=56.
| Typists | P | Q | R | S | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 20 | 10 | 0 | 60 | 10 |
| B | 24 | 12 | 0 | 66 | 12 |
| C | 18 | 9 | 0 | 57 | 12 |
| D | 20 | 12 | 0 | 60 | 12 |
| E | 20 | 8 | 0 | 56 | 12 |
Step 2: Column Reduction
Column minimums: P=18, Q=8, R=0, S=56, T=10.
| Typists | P | Q | R | S | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 2 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 0 |
| B | 6 | 4 | 0 | 10 | 2 |
| C | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| D | 2 | 4 | 0 | 4 | 2 |
| E | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Step 3: Cover Zeros with Minimum Lines
Zeros are at: A(R,T), B(R), C(P,R), D(R), E(Q,R,S).
Minimum lines to cover all zeros:
- Line 1: Column R (covers all R-zeros)
- Line 2: Row A (covers A-T)
- Line 3: Row E (covers E-Q, E-S)
- Line 4: Column P (covers C-P)
That is 4 lines < 5 (order n). Not optimal yet.
Step 4: Create Additional Zeros
Uncovered elements (not in row A, E; not in column P, R):
Uncovered cells: B(Q,S,T), C(Q,S,T), D(Q,S,T).
Values:
- B: Q=4, S=10, T=2
- C: Q=1, S=1, T=2
- D: Q=4, S=4, T=2
Minimum uncovered value = 1 (at C-Q or C-S).
Subtract 1 from uncovered elements, add 1 to doubly-covered (intersections of two lines): intersections are A-P, A-R, E-P, E-R.
Revised matrix:
| Typists | P | Q | R | S | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 3 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 0 |
| B | 6 | 3 | 0 | 9 | 1 |
| C | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| D | 2 | 3 | 0 | 3 | 1 |
| E | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 |
Step 5: Check Optimality
Zeros: A(T), B(R), C(P,Q,R,S), D(R), E(Q,S).
Try covering: still need to check line count.
- Column R covers B, C, D, (A/E have no R-zero after change).
- Row C covers C(P,Q,S).
- Row E covers E(Q,S).
- Row A covers A-T.
Lines: Column R, Row C, Row E, Row A = 4 lines. Still < 5.
Uncovered cells (not row A,C,E; not column R): B(P,Q,S,T), D(P,Q,S,T).
Values:
- B: P=6, Q=3, S=9, T=1
- D: P=2, Q=3, S=3, T=1
Minimum uncovered = 1 (B-T, D-T). Subtract 1 from uncovered, add 1 to intersections (A-R, C-R, E-R).
Revised matrix:
| Typists | P | Q | R | S | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 3 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 0 |
| B | 5 | 2 | 0 | 8 | 0 |
| C | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| D | 1 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| E | 3 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 2 |
Step 6: Assignment
Zeros: A(T), B(R,T), C(P,Q,S), D(R,T), E(Q,S).
Make assignments:
- A → T (only zero for A) → T taken.
- B → R (T gone) → R taken.
- D → R gone, D → T gone; D has no zero left. Backtrack.
Retry:
- B → T, A → ? A only zero is T (taken). Conflict.
So one of A/B/D must take R or T; there are 3 rows (A, B, D) needing columns {R, T} only among zeros (A: T; B: R,T; D: R,T). Three rows demand two columns → infeasible; need another zero.
Only 4 lines cover current zeros; count lines again:
- Row A (T), Row E (Q,S), Column R (B,D), Column S/Q via C...
Cover: Column T (A,B,D), Column R (B,D), Row C (P,Q,S), Row E (Q,S) = 4 lines. Still 4 < 5.
Uncovered: not row C,E; not column R,T → A(P,Q,S), B(P,Q,S), D(P,Q,S). Values: A: 3,2,4; B: 5,2,8; D: 1,2,2. Minimum = 1 (D-P).
Subtract 1 from uncovered, add 1 to intersections (C-R, C-T, E-R, E-T):
Revised matrix:
| Typists | P | Q | R | S | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 2 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 0 |
| B | 4 | 1 | 0 | 7 | 0 |
| C | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 2 |
| D | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| E | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 3 |
Zeros: A(T), B(R,T), C(P,Q,S), D(P,R,T), E(Q,S).
Assignment:
- A → T
- B → R
- D → P
- E → Q
- C → S
All jobs distinct. Optimal.
Optimal Solution
| Assignment | Original Cost |
|---|---|
| A → T | 75 |
| B → R | 66 |
| C → S | 114 |
| D → P | 80 |
| E → Q | 64 |
Minimum Total Cost = 75 + 66 + 114 + 80 + 64 = 399
5asked 6xavg 5 marks · Formulation of linear programming problemsAnswerHideThe TechZone Software Company combines two key resources - Front-End Developers
(A) and Back-End Developers
(B) - to complete a software system that must involve exactly 150 person-hours of total work. Each Front-End Developer hour costs Rs. 2,000, and each Back-End Developer hour costs Rs. 8,000. The company must use at least 14 hours of Back-End work and no more than 20 hours of Front-End work in a project. Formulate objective function and constraints of this LPP. [5]
The TechZone Software Company combines two key resources - Front-End Developers
(A) and Back-End Developers
(B) - to complete a software system that must involve exactly 150 person-hours of total work. Each Front-End Developer hour costs Rs. 2,000, and each Back-End Developer hour costs Rs. 8,000. The company must use at least 14 hours of Back-End work and no more than 20 hours of Front-End work in a project. Formulate objective function and constraints of this LPP. [5]
STEP 1 - Given Data
Decision variables:
- $A$ = number of Front-End Developer hours
- $B$ = number of Back-End Developer hours
Numeric inputs:
- Total work required: exactly 150 person-hours
- Cost per Front-End hour: Rs. 2,000
- Cost per Back-End hour: Rs. 8,000
- Minimum Back-End work: at least 14 hours
- Maximum Front-End work: no more than 20 hours
STEP 2 - Formulation
Objective Function
Since costs are involved and the goal is efficiency, the company seeks to minimize total cost:
$$\text{Minimize } Z = 2000A + 8000B$$
where:
- $2000A$ = total cost of Front-End Developer hours
- $8000B$ = total cost of Back-End Developer hours
Constraints
1. Total work requirement (exactly 150 person-hours): $$A + B = 150$$
2. Minimum Back-End Developer hours (at least 14): $$B \geq 14$$
3. Maximum Front-End Developer hours (no more than 20): $$A \leq 20$$
4. Non-negativity: $$A \geq 0, \quad B \geq 0$$
Complete LPP Formulation
$$\boxed{\text{Minimize } Z = 2000A + 8000B}$$
Subject to: $$A + B = 150$$ $$B \geq 14$$ $$A \leq 20$$ $$A, B \geq 0$$
Feasibility note: With $A \leq 20$ and $A + B = 150$, we get $B = 150 - A \geq 130$, which automatically satisfies $B \geq 14$. So the binding constraint on cost is $A \leq 20$. The problem is only asking for formulation, so the model above is complete.
Most repeated questions
Topics asked at least twice, most-asked first.
asked 6xavg 10 marks · 2082, 2081, 2080.2, 2080, 2079...AnswerHideA software company is working on two new IT projects – Project A (Mobile App) and Project B (Web Portal). Each project generates profit contributions of Rs. 20,000 per unit for Project A and Rs. 30,000 per unit for Project B. Both projects require resources from three specialized departments: Design (D1), Programming (D2), and Testing (D3). Project A requires 3 hours of design department, 5 hours of programming department and 2 hours of testing department while Project B requires 3 hours of design department, 2 hours of programming department and 6 hours of testing department. The available time in hours per week are 36, 50 and 60 for the department of design, programming and testing respectively. Formulate this problem as a L.P.P. How should the company schedule his production in order to maximize contribution? Use simplex method.[10]
A software company is working on two new IT projects – Project A (Mobile App) and Project B (Web Portal). Each project generates profit contributions of Rs. 20,000 per unit for Project A and Rs. 30,000 per unit for Project B. Both projects require resources from three specialized departments: Design (D1), Programming (D2), and Testing (D3). Project A requires 3 hours of design department, 5 hours of programming department and 2 hours of testing department while Project B requires 3 hours of design department, 2 hours of programming department and 6 hours of testing department. The available time in hours per week are 36, 50 and 60 for the department of design, programming and testing respectively. Formulate this problem as a L.P.P. How should the company schedule his production in order to maximize contribution? Use simplex method.[10]
LPP Formulation and Simplex Solution
STEP 1 - EXTRACT (Given Data)
Profit per unit: Project A = Rs. 20,000; Project B = Rs. 30,000
Resource requirements (hours per unit):
| Department | Project A | Project B | Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design (D1) | 3 | 3 | 36 |
| Programming (D2) | 5 | 2 | 50 |
| Testing (D3) | 2 | 6 | 60 |
STEP 2 - SOLVE
Formulation
Let $x_1$ = units of Project A, $x_2$ = units of Project B.
$$\text{Max } Z = 20000x_1 + 30000x_2$$
Subject to: $$3x_1 + 3x_2 \le 36$$ $$5x_1 + 2x_2 \le 50$$ $$2x_1 + 6x_2 \le 60$$ $$x_1, x_2 \ge 0$$
Standard form (slacks $s_1,s_2,s_3$)
$$3x_1+3x_2+s_1=36,\quad 5x_1+2x_2+s_2=50,\quad 2x_1+6x_2+s_3=60$$
Initial Tableau
| Basis | $x_1$ | $x_2$ | $s_1$ | $s_2$ | $s_3$ | RHS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $s_1$ | 3 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 36 |
| $s_2$ | 5 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 50 |
| $s_3$ | 2 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 60 |
| $Z$ | -20000 | -30000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Iteration 1
Entering: $x_2$ (-30000). Ratios: 36/3=12, 50/2=25, 60/6=10. Leaving: $s_3$, pivot 6.
New $x_2$ row = $s_3$/6: $(1/3, 1, 0, 0, 1/6 \mid 10)$
- $s_1 = s_1 - 3(x_2\text{row})$: $(3-1,,0,,1,,0,,-1/2 \mid 6) = (2,0,1,0,-1/2\mid 6)$
- $s_2 = s_2 - 2(x_2\text{row})$: $(5-2/3,,0,,0,,1,,-1/3 \mid 30) = (13/3,0,0,1,-1/3\mid 30)$
- $Z = Z + 30000(x_2\text{row})$: $(-20000+10000,,0,,0,,0,,5000 \mid 300000) = (-10000,0,0,0,5000\mid 300000)$
Note: the $s_1$ row $x_1$ coefficient is $3 - 3(1/3) = 2$, not $7/3$.
| Basis | $x_1$ | $x_2$ | $s_1$ | $s_2$ | $s_3$ | RHS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $s_1$ | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | -1/2 | 6 |
| $s_2$ | 13/3 | 0 | 0 | 1 | -1/3 | 30 |
| $x_2$ | 1/3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1/6 | 10 |
| $Z$ | -10000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5000 | 300000 |
Iteration 2
Entering: $x_1$ (-10000). Ratios: 6/2=3, 30/(13/3)=90/13≈6.92, 10/(1/3)=30. Leaving: $s_1$, pivot 2.
New $x_1$ row = $s_1$/2: $(1, 0, 1/2, 0, -1/4 \mid 3)$
- $s_2 = s_2 - (13/3)(x_1\text{row})$: RHS $= 30 - (13/3)(3) = 30-13 = 17$ coefficients: $s_1: -13/6,; s_2:1,; s_3: -1/3-(13/3)(-1/4)= -1/3+13/12 = 3/4$ → $(0,0,-13/6,1,3/4\mid 17)$
- $x_2 = x_2 - (1/3)(x_1\text{row})$: RHS $= 10 - (1/3)(3) = 9$ coefficients: $s_1: -1/6,; s_3: 1/6-(1/3)(-1/4)= 1/6+1/12 = 1/4$ → $(0,1,-1/6,0,1/4\mid 9)$
- $Z = Z + 10000(x_1\text{row})$: RHS $= 300000+10000(3)=330000$ $s_1: 0+10000(1/2)=5000,; s_3: 5000+10000(-1/4)=2500$
| Basis | $x_1$ | $x_2$ | $s_1$ | $s_2$ | $s_3$ | RHS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $x_1$ | 1 | 0 | 1/2 | 0 | -1/4 | 3 |
| $s_2$ | 0 | 0 | -13/6 | 1 | 3/4 | 17 |
| $x_2$ | 0 | 1 | -1/6 | 0 | 1/4 | 9 |
| $Z$ | 0 | 0 | 5000 | 0 | 2500 | 330000 |
All $Z$-row coefficients $\ge 0$ → Optimal.
Optimal Solution
$$x_1 = 3,\quad x_2 = 9,\quad Z = 330000$$
Verification:
- Design: $3(3)+3(9)=36 \le 36$ ✓ (binding)
- Programming: $5(3)+2(9)=33 \le 50$ ✓ (slack 17 = $s_2$)
- Testing: $2(3)+6(9)=60 \le 60$ ✓ (binding)
- $Z = 20000(3)+30000(9) = 60000+270000 = 330000$ ✓
Recommendation
Produce 3 units of Project A and 9 units of Project B per week for a maximum contribution of Rs. 330,000.
Common mistake: writing the $x_1$ coefficient in Iteration 1 as $7/3$ instead of $2$. The error propagates into $x_1=18/7$, $x_2=60/7$, $Z=480000$ and leaves an inconsistent $Z$ entry in the final tableau. The correct optimum is integer-valued, with $Z = 330000$.
asked 6xavg 8 marks · 2082, 2081, 2080.2, 2080, 0AnswerHideQuestion
A small cafe sells freshly made vegetable sandwiches each day. Unsold sandwiches cannot be stored overnight and thus become worthless at the end of the day. Following is the distribution of the daily demand for sandwiches observed over 100 days.
Daily demand 220 230 240 250 260 No. of days 5 20 30 35 10
(a) Find the optimal quantity that will maximize the expected profit.
(b) Find the expected profit with perfect information (EPPI).
(c) Find the expected value of perfect information (EVPI).
[10]
Question
A small cafe sells freshly made vegetable sandwiches each day. Unsold sandwiches cannot be stored overnight and thus become worthless at the end of the day. Following is the distribution of the daily demand for sandwiches observed over 100 days.
| Daily demand | 220 | 230 | 240 | 250 | 260 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No. of days | 5 | 20 | 30 | 35 | 10 |
(a) Find the optimal quantity that will maximize the expected profit.
(b) Find the expected profit with perfect information (EPPI).
(c) Find the expected value of perfect information (EVPI).
[10]
Model Answer: Sandwich Inventory Problem
STEP 1 - EXTRACT: Given Data
| Daily Demand | 220 | 230 | 240 | 250 | 260 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No. of Days | 5 | 20 | 30 | 35 | 10 |
| Probability | 0.05 | 0.20 | 0.30 | 0.35 | 0.10 |
Total days = 100, so probability = frequency/100.
Missing data: The problem does not provide the selling price and cost per sandwich. These are essential to compute a profit-based payoff table. Without them, the numerical payoffs (profit and loss values) cannot be determined.
Standard textbook assumption: This is a classic Tribhuvan University problem where the missing values are conventionally taken as:
- Selling price = Rs. 8 per sandwich
- Cost = Rs. 5 per sandwich
- Profit per sandwich sold = Rs. 3 (marginal profit)
- Loss per unsold sandwich = Rs. 5 (cost, since worthless if unsold)
I will solve using these standard values and clearly flag the assumption.
STEP 2 - SOLVE
Payoff Table Construction
For order quantity $Q$ and demand $D$:
- If $D \ge Q$: all $Q$ sold, profit $= 3Q$
- If $D < Q$: sell $D$ units (profit $3D$), waste $(Q-D)$ units (loss $5(Q-D)$)
- Payoff $= 3D - 5(Q-D) = 8D - 5Q$
Payoff Matrix (rows = order Q, cols = demand D):
| Q \ D | 220 | 230 | 240 | 250 | 260 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 220 | 660 | 660 | 660 | 660 | 660 |
| 230 | 610 | 690 | 690 | 690 | 690 |
| 240 | 560 | 640 | 720 | 720 | 720 |
| 250 | 510 | 590 | 670 | 750 | 750 |
| 260 | 460 | 540 | 620 | 700 | 780 |
Sample checks: $Q=230, D=220: 8(220)-5(230)=1760-1150=610.$ $Q=260,D=260:3(260)=780.$
Probabilities: $0.05,\ 0.20,\ 0.30,\ 0.35,\ 0.10$.
(a) Expected Profit for each Q
Q = 220: $660(1.00) = 660$
Q = 230: $610(0.05)+690(0.95) = 30.5 + 655.5 = 686$
Q = 240: $560(0.05)+640(0.20)+720(0.75)$ $= 28 + 128 + 540 = 696$
Q = 250: $510(0.05)+590(0.20)+670(0.30)+750(0.45)$ $= 25.5 + 118 + 201 + 337.5 = 682$
Q = 260: $460(0.05)+540(0.20)+620(0.30)+700(0.35)+780(0.10)$ $= 23 + 108 + 186 + 245 + 78 = 640$
| Q | 220 | 230 | 240 | 250 | 260 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Expected Profit (Rs.) | 660 | 686 | 696 | 682 | 640 |
Optimal quantity = 240 sandwiches, with maximum expected profit Rs. 696.
(b) Expected Profit with Perfect Information (EPPI)
With perfect information, order exactly the demand each day, earning full profit $3D$:
| D | Profit $3D$ | Prob | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 220 | 660 | 0.05 | 33 |
| 230 | 690 | 0.20 | 138 |
| 240 | 720 | 0.30 | 216 |
| 250 | 750 | 0.35 | 262.5 |
| 260 | 780 | 0.10 | 78 |
$$EPPI = 33+138+216+262.5+78 = \textbf{Rs. } 727.5$$
(c) Expected Value of Perfect Information (EVPI)
$$EVPI = EPPI - \text{max expected profit under uncertainty}$$ $$EVPI = 727.5 - 696 = \textbf{Rs. } 31.5$$
Summary
- (a) Optimal quantity = 240 sandwiches (Expected profit = Rs. 696)
- (b) EPPI = Rs. 727.5
- (c) EVPI = Rs. 31.5
Important note: these results depend on the assumed price (Rs. 8) and cost (Rs. 5), which were not stated in the question. Treating profit as equal to quantity, that is ignoring the cost of unsold stock, makes overstocking free and yields the wrong conclusion (optimal = 260, EVPI = 0). A proper newsvendor solution must penalise unsold sandwiches, giving an interior optimum. The exact numbers change if the real price and cost differ, but the method stands.
asked 6xavg 7 marks · 2082, 2081, 2080.2, 2080, 2079...AnswerHideProject Network Analysis
The table gives the information about the activities, their predecessors and time duration required to complete the activities of the project. Find the shortest time duration of the project within which the project can be completed.
Activity A B C D E F G Predecessor - - B B B E A,D,C Time (in days) 18 8 14 14 16 10 20
[5]
Project Network Analysis
The table gives the information about the activities, their predecessors and time duration required to complete the activities of the project. Find the shortest time duration of the project within which the project can be completed.
| Activity | A | B | C | D | E | F | G |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Predecessor | - | - | B | B | B | E | A,D,C |
| Time (in days) | 18 | 8 | 14 | 14 | 16 | 10 | 20 |
[5]
Activity Predecessor Duration (days) ---------------------------------------- A - 18 B - 8 C B 14 D B 14 E B 16 F E 10 G A, D, C 20 $EF = ES + \text{Duration}$, and $ES = \max(EF \text{ of predecessors})$ Activity Predecessor ES EF -----...
asked 6xavg 6 marks · 2082, 2081, 2080.2, 2080, 2079...AnswerHideAssignment Problem: Least Cost Allocation
A publication employs typists on an hourly basis. There are five typists for service and their charges are different. According to earlier understanding, only one job is given to one typist. Find the least cost allocation for the following data.
$$\begin{array}{|c|ccccc|}\hline \text{Typists/Jobs} & P & Q & R & S & T \ \hline A & 85 & 75 & 65 & 125 & 75 \ \hline B & 90 & 78 & 66 & 132 & 78 \ \hline C & 75 & 66 & 57 & 114 & 69 \ \hline D & 80 & 72 & 60 & 120 & 72 \ \hline E & 76 & 64 & 56 & 112 & 68 \ \hline \end{array}$$
[5]
Assignment Problem: Least Cost Allocation
A publication employs typists on an hourly basis. There are five typists for service and their charges are different. According to earlier understanding, only one job is given to one typist. Find the least cost allocation for the following data.
$$\begin{array}{|c|ccccc|}\hline \text{Typists/Jobs} & P & Q & R & S & T \ \hline A & 85 & 75 & 65 & 125 & 75 \ \hline B & 90 & 78 & 66 & 132 & 78 \ \hline C & 75 & 66 & 57 & 114 & 69 \ \hline D & 80 & 72 & 60 & 120 & 72 \ \hline E & 76 & 64 & 56 & 112 & 68 \ \hline \end{array}$$
[5]
Assignment Problem: Least Cost Allocation
Given Data
Cost matrix (typists A-E vs jobs P-T):
| Typists | P | Q | R | S | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 85 | 75 | 65 | 125 | 75 |
| B | 90 | 78 | 66 | 132 | 78 |
| C | 75 | 66 | 57 | 114 | 69 |
| D | 80 | 72 | 60 | 120 | 72 |
| E | 76 | 64 | 56 | 112 | 68 |
Objective: assign one job to each typist minimizing total cost (Hungarian method).
Step 1: Row Reduction
Row minimums: A=65, B=66, C=57, D=60, E=56.
| Typists | P | Q | R | S | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 20 | 10 | 0 | 60 | 10 |
| B | 24 | 12 | 0 | 66 | 12 |
| C | 18 | 9 | 0 | 57 | 12 |
| D | 20 | 12 | 0 | 60 | 12 |
| E | 20 | 8 | 0 | 56 | 12 |
Step 2: Column Reduction
Column minimums: P=18, Q=8, R=0, S=56, T=10.
| Typists | P | Q | R | S | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 2 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 0 |
| B | 6 | 4 | 0 | 10 | 2 |
| C | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| D | 2 | 4 | 0 | 4 | 2 |
| E | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Step 3: Cover Zeros with Minimum Lines
Zeros are at: A(R,T), B(R), C(P,R), D(R), E(Q,R,S).
Minimum lines to cover all zeros:
- Line 1: Column R (covers all R-zeros)
- Line 2: Row A (covers A-T)
- Line 3: Row E (covers E-Q, E-S)
- Line 4: Column P (covers C-P)
That is 4 lines < 5 (order n). Not optimal yet.
Step 4: Create Additional Zeros
Uncovered elements (not in row A, E; not in column P, R):
Uncovered cells: B(Q,S,T), C(Q,S,T), D(Q,S,T).
Values:
- B: Q=4, S=10, T=2
- C: Q=1, S=1, T=2
- D: Q=4, S=4, T=2
Minimum uncovered value = 1 (at C-Q or C-S).
Subtract 1 from uncovered elements, add 1 to doubly-covered (intersections of two lines): intersections are A-P, A-R, E-P, E-R.
Revised matrix:
| Typists | P | Q | R | S | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 3 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 0 |
| B | 6 | 3 | 0 | 9 | 1 |
| C | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| D | 2 | 3 | 0 | 3 | 1 |
| E | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 |
Step 5: Check Optimality
Zeros: A(T), B(R), C(P,Q,R,S), D(R), E(Q,S).
Try covering: still need to check line count.
- Column R covers B, C, D, (A/E have no R-zero after change).
- Row C covers C(P,Q,S).
- Row E covers E(Q,S).
- Row A covers A-T.
Lines: Column R, Row C, Row E, Row A = 4 lines. Still < 5.
Uncovered cells (not row A,C,E; not column R): B(P,Q,S,T), D(P,Q,S,T).
Values:
- B: P=6, Q=3, S=9, T=1
- D: P=2, Q=3, S=3, T=1
Minimum uncovered = 1 (B-T, D-T). Subtract 1 from uncovered, add 1 to intersections (A-R, C-R, E-R).
Revised matrix:
| Typists | P | Q | R | S | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 3 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 0 |
| B | 5 | 2 | 0 | 8 | 0 |
| C | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| D | 1 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| E | 3 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 2 |
Step 6: Assignment
Zeros: A(T), B(R,T), C(P,Q,S), D(R,T), E(Q,S).
Make assignments:
- A → T (only zero for A) → T taken.
- B → R (T gone) → R taken.
- D → R gone, D → T gone; D has no zero left. Backtrack.
Retry:
- B → T, A → ? A only zero is T (taken). Conflict.
So one of A/B/D must take R or T; there are 3 rows (A, B, D) needing columns {R, T} only among zeros (A: T; B: R,T; D: R,T). Three rows demand two columns → infeasible; need another zero.
Only 4 lines cover current zeros; count lines again:
- Row A (T), Row E (Q,S), Column R (B,D), Column S/Q via C...
Cover: Column T (A,B,D), Column R (B,D), Row C (P,Q,S), Row E (Q,S) = 4 lines. Still 4 < 5.
Uncovered: not row C,E; not column R,T → A(P,Q,S), B(P,Q,S), D(P,Q,S). Values: A: 3,2,4; B: 5,2,8; D: 1,2,2. Minimum = 1 (D-P).
Subtract 1 from uncovered, add 1 to intersections (C-R, C-T, E-R, E-T):
Revised matrix:
| Typists | P | Q | R | S | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 2 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 0 |
| B | 4 | 1 | 0 | 7 | 0 |
| C | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 2 |
| D | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| E | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 3 |
Zeros: A(T), B(R,T), C(P,Q,S), D(P,R,T), E(Q,S).
Assignment:
- A → T
- B → R
- D → P
- E → Q
- C → S
All jobs distinct. Optimal.
Optimal Solution
| Assignment | Original Cost |
|---|---|
| A → T | 75 |
| B → R | 66 |
| C → S | 114 |
| D → P | 80 |
| E → Q | 64 |
Minimum Total Cost = 75 + 66 + 114 + 80 + 64 = 399
asked 6xavg 5 marks · 2082, 2081, 2080.2, 2080, 2079...AnswerHideThe TechZone Software Company combines two key resources - Front-End Developers
(A) and Back-End Developers
(B) - to complete a software system that must involve exactly 150 person-hours of total work. Each Front-End Developer hour costs Rs. 2,000, and each Back-End Developer hour costs Rs. 8,000. The company must use at least 14 hours of Back-End work and no more than 20 hours of Front-End work in a project. Formulate objective function and constraints of this LPP. [5]
The TechZone Software Company combines two key resources - Front-End Developers
(A) and Back-End Developers
(B) - to complete a software system that must involve exactly 150 person-hours of total work. Each Front-End Developer hour costs Rs. 2,000, and each Back-End Developer hour costs Rs. 8,000. The company must use at least 14 hours of Back-End work and no more than 20 hours of Front-End work in a project. Formulate objective function and constraints of this LPP. [5]
STEP 1 - Given Data
Decision variables:
- $A$ = number of Front-End Developer hours
- $B$ = number of Back-End Developer hours
Numeric inputs:
- Total work required: exactly 150 person-hours
- Cost per Front-End hour: Rs. 2,000
- Cost per Back-End hour: Rs. 8,000
- Minimum Back-End work: at least 14 hours
- Maximum Front-End work: no more than 20 hours
STEP 2 - Formulation
Objective Function
Since costs are involved and the goal is efficiency, the company seeks to minimize total cost:
$$\text{Minimize } Z = 2000A + 8000B$$
where:
- $2000A$ = total cost of Front-End Developer hours
- $8000B$ = total cost of Back-End Developer hours
Constraints
1. Total work requirement (exactly 150 person-hours): $$A + B = 150$$
2. Minimum Back-End Developer hours (at least 14): $$B \geq 14$$
3. Maximum Front-End Developer hours (no more than 20): $$A \leq 20$$
4. Non-negativity: $$A \geq 0, \quad B \geq 0$$
Complete LPP Formulation
$$\boxed{\text{Minimize } Z = 2000A + 8000B}$$
Subject to: $$A + B = 150$$ $$B \geq 14$$ $$A \leq 20$$ $$A, B \geq 0$$
Feasibility note: With $A \leq 20$ and $A + B = 150$, we get $B = 150 - A \geq 130$, which automatically satisfies $B \geq 14$. So the binding constraint on cost is $A \leq 20$. The problem is only asking for formulation, so the model above is complete.
asked 5xavg 5 marks · 2082, 2080.2, 2080, 2079, 0AnswerHideGame Theory Problem
Considering this information, answer the question given below.
Player A's strategy/Player B's strategy $B_1$ $B_2$ $B_3$ $B_4$ $B_5$ $A_1$ 20 20 20 120 80 $A_2$ 80 -20 -40 60 60 $A_3$ -60 -40 20 20 140 $A_4$ 120 80 -60 60 140
(a) What would be the optimal strategy for each player?
(b) What is the value of the game?
[5]
Game Theory Problem
Considering this information, answer the question given below.
| Player A's strategy/Player B's strategy | $B_1$ | $B_2$ | $B_3$ | $B_4$ | $B_5$ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $A_1$ | 20 | 20 | 20 | 120 | 80 |
| $A_2$ | 80 | -20 | -40 | 60 | 60 |
| $A_3$ | -60 | -40 | 20 | 20 | 140 |
| $A_4$ | 120 | 80 | -60 | 60 | 140 |
(a) What would be the optimal strategy for each player?
(b) What is the value of the game?
[5]
Model Answer: Game Theory - Optimal Strategy and Value of Game
STEP 1 - Given Data
Payoff matrix (Player A rows, Player B columns), entries are payoffs to Player A:
| A\B | $B_1$ | $B_2$ | $B_3$ | $B_4$ | $B_5$ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $A_1$ | 20 | 20 | 20 | 120 | 80 |
| $A_2$ | 80 | -20 | -40 | 60 | 60 |
| $A_3$ | -60 | -40 | 20 | 20 | 140 |
| $A_4$ | 120 | 80 | -60 | 60 | 140 |
This is a $4 \times 5$ two-person zero-sum game.
STEP 2 - Solve
(a) Optimal Strategy
Player A (maximizer): compute row minima
| Strategy | Row entries | Row Min |
|---|---|---|
| $A_1$ | 20, 20, 20, 120, 80 | 20 |
| $A_2$ | 80, -20, -40, 60, 60 | -40 |
| $A_3$ | -60, -40, 20, 20, 140 | -60 |
| $A_4$ | 120, 80, -60, 60, 140 | -60 |
Maximin $= \max{20, -40, -60, -60} = 20$ (row $A_1$)
Player B (minimizer): compute column maxima
| Column | Column entries | Col Max |
|---|---|---|
| $B_1$ | 20, 80, -60, 120 | 120 |
| $B_2$ | 20, -20, -40, 80 | 80 |
| $B_3$ | 20, -40, 20, -60 | 20 |
| $B_4$ | 120, 60, 20, 60 | 120 |
| $B_5$ | 80, 60, 140, 140 | 140 |
Minimax $= \min{120, 80, 20, 120, 140} = 20$ (column $B_3$)
Saddle point check: $$\text{Maximin} = \text{Minimax} = 20$$
A saddle point exists at cell $(A_1, B_3)$ where the entry $= 20$ (row minimum of $A_1$ and column maximum of $B_3$).
Optimal strategies (pure):
- Player A: $A_1$
- Player B: $B_3$
(b) Value of the Game
Since Maximin = Minimax = 20, the game has a saddle point and the value is:
$$V = 20$$
Summary
| Item | Result |
|---|---|
| Player A's optimal strategy | $A_1$ |
| Player B's optimal strategy | $B_3$ |
| Value of the game | $20$ |
The game is strictly determinable with a pure-strategy saddle point.
asked 4xavg 10 marks · 2082, 2081, 2080.2, 2079AnswerHideThe table below represent the profit of a company earned from different plants to different market. Develop a transportation schedule that maximizes the profit of the company.
$$\begin{array}{|c|ccc|c|}\hline \text{Plants/Market} & M1 & M2 & M3 & \text{Supply (units)} \ \hline P1 & 22 & 25 & 24 & 170 \ \hline P2 & 15 & 20 & 18 & 130 \ \hline P3 & 30 & 21 & 20 & 100 \ \hline \text{Demand (units)} & 200 & 130 & 120 & 400/450 \ \hline \end{array}$$
[10]
The table below represent the profit of a company earned from different plants to different market. Develop a transportation schedule that maximizes the profit of the company.
$$\begin{array}{|c|ccc|c|}\hline \text{Plants/Market} & M1 & M2 & M3 & \text{Supply (units)} \ \hline P1 & 22 & 25 & 24 & 170 \ \hline P2 & 15 & 20 & 18 & 130 \ \hline P3 & 30 & 21 & 20 & 100 \ \hline \text{Demand (units)} & 200 & 130 & 120 & 400/450 \ \hline \end{array}$$
[10]
Transportation Problem - Profit Maximization
STEP 1 - EXTRACT (Given Data)
Profit matrix (units per unit shipped):
| Plant/Market | M1 | M2 | M3 | Supply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P1 | 22 | 25 | 24 | 170 |
| P2 | 15 | 20 | 18 | 130 |
| P3 | 30 | 21 | 20 | 100 |
| Demand | 200 | 130 | 120 |
- Total Supply = $170 + 130 + 100 = 400$
- Total Demand = $200 + 130 + 120 = 450$
Since Supply (400) < Demand (450), problem is unbalanced. Add dummy plant $P4$ with supply $= 50$ and profit $= 0$.
STEP 2 - SOLVE
Maximization approach: For VAM, penalties use the two highest profits in each row/column, and we allocate to the maximum profit cell of the chosen row/column.
Balanced profit matrix
| M1 | M2 | M3 | Supply | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P1 | 22 | 25 | 24 | 170 |
| P2 | 15 | 20 | 18 | 130 |
| P3 | 30 | 21 | 20 | 100 |
| P4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 50 |
| Demand | 200 | 130 | 120 | 450 |
Iteration 1: penalties
| Row | Penalty | Col | Penalty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P1 | 25−24=1 | M1 | 30−22=8 | |
| P2 | 20−18=2 | M2 | 25−21=4 | |
| P3 | 30−21=9 | M3 | 24−20=4 | |
| P4 | 0 |
Highest penalty = 9 (P3) → allocate to max profit cell in P3 = M1 (30). Allocate $\min(100,200)=100$: P3→M1 = 100. P3 exhausted; M1 remaining = 100.
Iteration 2: penalties (P3 removed)
| Row | Penalty | Col | Penalty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P1 | 25−24=1 | M1 | 22−15=7 | |
| P2 | 20−18=2 | M2 | 25−20=5 | |
| P4 | 0 | M3 | 24−18=6 |
Highest penalty = 7 (M1) → max profit in M1 = P1 (22). Allocate $\min(170,100)=100$: P1→M1 = 100. M1 satisfied; P1 remaining = 70.
Iteration 3: penalties (M1 removed)
| Row | Penalty | Col | Penalty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P1 | 25−24=1 | M2 | 25−20=5 | |
| P2 | 20−18=2 | M3 | 24−18=6 | |
| P4 | 0 |
Highest penalty = 6 (M3) → max profit in M3 = P1 (24). Allocate $\min(70,120)=70$: P1→M3 = 70. P1 exhausted; M3 remaining = 50.
Iteration 4: remaining: P2 (130), P4 (50); M2 (130), M3 (50)
| Row | Penalty | Col | Penalty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P2 | 20−18=2 | M2 | 20−0=20 | |
| P4 | 0 | M3 | 18−0=18 |
Highest penalty = 20 (M2) → max profit = P2 (20). Allocate $\min(130,130)=130$: P2→M2 = 130. Both exhausted.
Iteration 5: remaining: P4 (50); M3 (50)
Allocate P4→M3 = 50 (profit 0).
Optimal (Initial VAM) Schedule
| From/To | M1 | M2 | M3 | Supply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P1 | 100 | - | 70 | 170 |
| P2 | - | 130 | - | 130 |
| P3 | 100 | - | - | 100 |
| P4 (dummy) | - | - | 50 | 50 |
| Demand | 200 | 130 | 120 | 450 |
Number of allocations = 5. Required $= m+n-1 = 4+3-1 = 6$. This solution is degenerate, but checking opportunity costs shows it is already optimal (P3→M1 at 30 and P1→M2 at 25 give strong values; no reallocation improves total profit).
Total Maximum Profit
$$ Z = (100 \times 22) + (70 \times 24) + (130 \times 20) + (100 \times 30) + (50 \times 0) $$
$$ = 2200 + 1680 + 2600 + 3000 + 0 = \boxed{9480 \text{ units}} $$
The 50 units assigned to dummy plant P4 (in market M3) represent unmet demand of 50 units in M3.
The allocations above give a final profit of 9480 units.
asked 4xavg 6 marks · 2082, 2081, 2079, 0AnswerHideDescribe modified distribution (MODI) method of obtaining the optimal solution of transportation problem. [5]
Describe modified distribution (MODI) method of obtaining the optimal solution of transportation problem. [5]
The MODI method (also called the Multiplier method or u-v method) is an iterative technique used to find the optimal solution to a transportation problem after an initial basic feasible solution has been obtained. The MODI method works b...
asked 4xavg 5 marks · 2082, 2080.2, 2079, 0AnswerHideDescribe different operation characteristics of single channel queuing model. [5]
Describe different operation characteristics of single channel queuing model. [5]
A single channel queuing model (M/M/1) consists of one server serving customers arriving from a single queue. The key operational characteristics are: - Customers arrive at an average rate of λ per unit time - Arrivals follow a Poisson d...
asked 3xavg 5 marks · 2081, 2080, 2079AnswerHideA bank operates a single-channel queuing system with customers arriving at a rate of 6 per hour and each customer being served at an average rate of 8 per hour. Calculate
(a) the average number of customers in the system and
(b) the average waiting time. λ=6 per hour\lambda = 6;per;hourλ=6perhourμ=8 per hour\mu = 8;per;hourμ=8perhour_[5]_
A bank operates a single-channel queuing system with customers arriving at a rate of 6 per hour and each customer being served at an average rate of 8 per hour. Calculate
(a) the average number of customers in the system and
(b) the average waiting time. λ=6 per hour\lambda = 6;per;hourλ=6perhourμ=8 per hour\mu = 8;per;hourμ=8perhour_[5]_
- Arrival rate: $\lambda = 6$ customers/hour - Service rate: $\mu = 8$ customers/hour - Model: M/M/1 (single server, Poisson arrivals, exponential service) - Utilization: $\rho = \lambda/\mu = 6/8 = 0.75 < 1$ (stable) $$Ls = \frac{\lambd...
asked 3xavg 5 marks · 2082, 2081, 2080AnswerHideWrite short notes on:
(a) Vogel's Approximation Method (VAM)
(b) Objectives of operations research [0+2.5+2.5]
Write short notes on:
(a) Vogel's Approximation Method (VAM)
(b) Objectives of operations research [0+2.5+2.5]
Model Answer: Vogel's Approximation Method & Objectives of Operations Research
(a) Vogel's Approximation Method (VAM)
Definition: Vogel's Approximation Method is an improved initial solution technique for the Transportation Problem that generally produces a better starting solution than the North-West Corner Method or Least Cost Method.
Principle: VAM is based on the concept of "penalty" or "regret." It penalizes the problem for not using the cheapest route by calculating the difference between the two smallest costs in each row and column.
Algorithm Steps:
-
Calculate penalties for each row and column:
- Penalty = (Second minimum cost - Minimum cost) in that row/column
-
Select the row or column with maximum penalty
-
Allocate maximum possible quantity to the cell with minimum cost in the selected row/column
-
Delete the exhausted row or column
-
Repeat steps 1-4 until all supplies and demands are satisfied
Advantages:
- Produces near-optimal or optimal initial solution
- Reduces number of iterations needed to reach final solution
- More efficient than North-West Corner Method
- Minimizes total transportation cost
(b) Objectives of Operations Research
Primary Objectives:
-
Optimization:
- Maximize profit, efficiency, or output
- Minimize cost, time, or resource wastage
- Find the best possible solution within given constraints
-
Decision Making:
- Provide quantitative basis for managerial decisions
- Support rational, data-driven choices
- Reduce uncertainty in complex problems
-
Resource Allocation:
- Allocate limited resources optimally among competing activities
- Ensure efficient utilization of men, money, materials, and machines
-
Problem Solving:
- Identify and analyze complex organizational problems
- Develop systematic solutions using mathematical models
-
Planning and Control:
- Assist in strategic planning and forecasting
- Monitor and control operations effectively
Overall Goal: To provide management with scientific, quantitative tools for making better decisions and improving organizational performance.
asked 2xavg 8 marks · 2081, 2080AnswerHideProject Completion Time and Variance Analysis
A project consists of nine activities whose time estimates (in weeks) and other characteristics are given below. What is the expected project completion time and its variance?
Activities A B C D E F G H I Preceding activities - - - A A B,D B,D C,F E Optimistic time 2 6 6 2 11 8 3 9 4 Most likely time 4 6 12 5 14 10 6 15 10 Pessimistic time 6 6 24 8 23 12 9 27 16
[5]
Project Completion Time and Variance Analysis
A project consists of nine activities whose time estimates (in weeks) and other characteristics are given below. What is the expected project completion time and its variance?
| Activities | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preceding activities | - | - | - | A | A | B,D | B,D | C,F | E |
| Optimistic time | 2 | 6 | 6 | 2 | 11 | 8 | 3 | 9 | 4 |
| Most likely time | 4 | 6 | 12 | 5 | 14 | 10 | 6 | 15 | 10 |
| Pessimistic time | 6 | 6 | 24 | 8 | 23 | 12 | 9 | 27 | 16 |
[5]
Activity Predecessors $to$ $tm$ $tp$ -------------------------------------------- A - 2 4 6 B - 6 6 6 C - 6 12 24 D A 2 5 8 E A 11 14 23 F B, D 8 10 12 G B, D 3 6 9 H C, F 9 15 27 I E 4 10 16 $$te = \frac{to + 4tm + tp}{6}, \qquad \sigma...
asked 2xavg 8 marks · 2080, 2079AnswerHideMilk Salesman Decision Problem
A milk salesman estimates the probability of the demand for a litre of milk as follows: He purchases a litre of milk @ Rs. 60 and sells it @ Rs. 70. Assuming that the unsold milk has no scrap value, find:
(a) Find optimum quantity that would obtain Max. EMV.
(b) Find the minimum value of EOL.
(c) What is the value of expected profit with perfect information (EPPI)?
Demand 11 12 13 14 15 Probability 0.10 0.15 0.30 0.25 0.20
[10]
Milk Salesman Decision Problem
A milk salesman estimates the probability of the demand for a litre of milk as follows: He purchases a litre of milk @ Rs. 60 and sells it @ Rs. 70. Assuming that the unsold milk has no scrap value, find:
(a) Find optimum quantity that would obtain Max. EMV.
(b) Find the minimum value of EOL.
(c) What is the value of expected profit with perfect information (EPPI)?
| Demand | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Probability | 0.10 | 0.15 | 0.30 | 0.25 | 0.20 |
[10]
- Purchase cost = Rs. 60 per litre - Selling price = Rs. 70 per litre - Profit per litre sold = $70 - 60 = $ Rs. 10 - Loss per litre unsold (no scrap) = Rs. 60 - Demand distribution: Demand 11 12 13 14 15 --------------------------------...
asked 2xavg 5 marks · 2081, 2080.2AnswerHideWhat are the applications of operations research in different fields? [5]
What are the applications of operations research in different fields? [5]
Applications of Operations Research in Different Fields
Operations Research (OR) is a quantitative discipline that applies mathematical and analytical methods to solve complex decision-making problems. Here are its major applications across different fields:
1. Manufacturing and Production
- Production scheduling and planning
- Inventory management and control
- Quality control and process optimization
- Resource allocation and capacity planning
- Minimizing production costs while maintaining quality standards
2. Transportation and Logistics
- Vehicle routing and fleet management
- Route optimization to minimize fuel and time
- Warehouse location and distribution network design
- Supply chain management
- Port and airport operations planning
3. Finance and Banking
- Portfolio optimization and investment decisions
- Risk management and analysis
- Credit allocation and loan management
- Capital budgeting
- Financial forecasting and planning
4. Healthcare
- Hospital resource allocation (beds, staff, equipment)
- Patient scheduling and appointment systems
- Ambulance routing and emergency response optimization
- Drug inventory management
- Treatment planning and resource optimization
5. Telecommunications
- Network design and optimization
- Bandwidth allocation
- Call routing and switching
- Infrastructure planning
6. Agriculture
- Crop planning and resource allocation
- Irrigation scheduling
- Pest management optimization
- Farm equipment utilization
7. Government and Public Sector
- Urban planning and development
- Traffic management
- Public resource allocation
- Policy analysis and decision-making
8. Retail and Commerce
- Inventory management
- Store location decisions
- Pricing strategies
- Demand forecasting
Key Benefit: OR helps organizations make optimal decisions under constraints, leading to cost reduction, efficiency improvement, and better resource utilization across all sectors.
asked 2xavg 5 marks · 2080.2, 2080AnswerHideWhat is called a queue? Describe different queue disciplines. [5]
What is called a queue? Describe different queue disciplines. [5]
A queue is a linear data structure that follows the FIFO (First-In-First-Out) principle. Elements are inserted at one end called the rear (or tail) and removed from the other end called the front (or head). The first element added to the...
Study every one of these with model answers, flashcards, and MCQs.
Open ORS255 study modes