Optimization panel

The Optimization panel enables schedulers to evaluate and improve a production schedule by running schedule optimization on selected batches. This panel is accessed when you select a process batch and click the Optimize option in the Schedule overview panel of Planning Board.

Note: By default, the Optimize option is disabled and becomes available only when at least one process batch is selected. You can select additional tank batches; however, a valid selection must include a process batch.

The Optimization panel contains these tabs:

  • Settings
  • KPI result

The Settings tab is displayed when the Optimization panel opens. This tab contains the parameters used during schedule optimization. These values are populated from the system default settings or the user's most recently used settings for the current model.

The Sequence settings determine how the optimizer evaluates the order of the selected batches. The options include:

  • Optimize Sequence: Allows the optimizer to determine the most suitable sequence.
  • Fixed Sequence: The user selects the sequence, and the application does not modify the sequence while rescheduling the batches.

If the Inventory Constraint check box is selected, inventory limitations are considered during optimization

The Scheduling settings define the time boundaries that the optimizer must observe when creating a schedule.

The scheduling section includes:

  • Scheduling direction, such as A soon as possible or Just in time.
  • Date and time range controls.
  • Scheduling constraint options.

The constraints can be selected independently. You can select neither constraint, either constraint, or both constraints together. When selected, these settings limit how far the optimizer can move batches within the schedule.

When optimization is started, the panel displays execution information, including:

  • Number of selected batches
  • Optimization start time
  • Current status
  • Runtime duration

During processing, controls that can modify the schedule are disabled to prevent additional scheduling changes.

KPIs result tab

This tab displays the impact of the optimization on schedule performance by comparing KPI values before and after optimization.

Note: The KPIs result tab becomes available after the optimization run completes.

The KPI indicators use the same visual indicators as the Schedule Overview panel:

  • A red upward arrow indicates that a KPI value increased.
  • A green downward arrow indicates that a KPI value decreased.
  • A grey equals sign indicates that no change occurred.

These indicators allow users to quickly evaluate the impact of optimization on schedule performance.

After optimization completes, the panel displays the results of the optimization run:

  • If improvements are identified, updated KPI values are displayed, and you can select to accept or discard the optimized schedule.
  • If no improvements are found, a message indicates that no KPI improvements were detected.
  • If an error occurs during optimization, an error message is displayed, and the optimization results are not applied.

Optimization actions are recorded in the Change Log, enabling users to track optimization activity and use standard undo and redo functionality.

Examples include:

  • Optimize (n batches)
  • Undo Optimize (n batches)
  • Redo Optimize (n batches)

This integration allows users to review, reverse, or reapply optimization changes as needed.

Note: The Settings tab is displayed when the panel opens. The KPI Results tab is available only after an optimization run has completed.