Multi-objective optimization for combined ground and aerial delivery systems using drones

The vehicle routing problem (VRP) has received much attention in recent decades, and achieving an efficient distribution and collection system has always been of concern to commercial companies. Nowadays, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones or quadcopters, play a prominent role in transmitting and delivering packages quickly and cost-effectively. On the other hand, due to the increase in the population of cities and the increase in land traffic, the use of aerial delivery systems has attracted more consideration than before. In this paper, a multi-objective optimization model for routing and distribution of food to customers through motorcycle couriers (ground delivery) and drones (aerial delivery) is presented. Finally, to solve and manage the multi-objective problem, Lp-metric method has been used and the model is evaluated using the information of a restaurant in Tehran.

Keywords:

Vehicle routing problem , Delivery systems , Drones , UAVs , Multi-objective optimization , Mathematical model