Course detail

Mathematical Methods in Logistics

FSI-SMA-A Acad. year: 2026/2027 Summer semester

The subject is focused on selected optimization tasks. Attention will be paid in particular to the tasks of convex optimization, calculus of variations and the basics of optimal control.

Language of instruction

English

Number of ECTS credits

5

Entry knowledge

Knowledge of foundations of the following topics is required:

  • differential and integral calculus of one-variable functions
  • vector and matrix calculus
  • numerical optimisation
  • probability

Rules for evaluation and completion of the course

Credit will be awarded for the completion of a semester project. This will involve the independent development of a genetic algorithm for solving a combinatorial optimization problem in logistics. The exam will take the form of a project defense, which will be assigned no later than the 10th week of the semester.

The study programmes with the given course

Programme N-LAN-A: Logistics Analytics, Master's, compulsory

Type of course unit

 

Lecture

26 hours, optionally

Syllabus

Week 1-3: Introduction to convex optimisation, convex functions, convex sets
Week 4-5: Quadratic programming


Week 6- 9: Evolutionary algorithms with an emphasis on genetic algorithms


Week 10-13: Implementation techniques and algorithm design for solving the so-called Green TSP problem

Exercise

13 hours, compulsory

Syllabus

In the first exercise we recall elementary notions from analytical geometry and numerical methods. Tutorial examples will be calculated. Further exercises will topically follow the lectures from the previous week.