Structural System Models for Locational Decisions - An Example Using the Hypercube Queueing Model (From Operations Research, P 1054-1091, 1978, K B Haley, ed.)

• NCJ Number: 89667
• Author(s): R C Larson
• Date Published: 1979
• Length: 38 pages
• Grant Number(s): 78-NI-AX-0007
• Sponsoring Agency: Pennsylvania General Assembly
• Sale Source: Elsevier North-Holland, Inc
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This paper uses the recently developed hypercube queueing model to illustrate the ways in which locational decisions -- both long-term and short-term -- can be made within the framework of a system model.

Abstract

A structural system model of a spatially distributed system embodies system dynamics as well as statics, explicitly depicts the various states of system operation, and includes probabilistic as well as deterministic features of operation. In this context, a locational decision is an allocation of resources within an operating system. Particularly important to the recently developed hypercube queueing model is state dependent interaction among facilities (mobile servers) that precludes application of many traditional locational theories. Recent work outlined in the paper includes a generalization of the N-median problem to congested facilities, optimal dispatching of facilities, districting (sectoring), consideration of quality of locational information, and short-term repositioning of facilities. Recent implementations of the model are also discussed. Figures, formulas, and 45 references are provided. (Author abstract modified)