Intelligent scheduling of chemical plants: a constraint programming approach

Abstract

The applicability of constraint programming to the task of scheduling batch and mixed batch/continuous plants in the chemical industry is investigated. The main features of constraint programming are described, emphasizing possible advantages when applied to the scheduling task. Based on the results, an architecture for a reactive scheduling system is outlined. The underlying strategy for developing a problem specific solution approach is described and applied to a real-world problem. Emphasis is given to the advantages gained by the use of a constraint programming language.