Functional optimization of a Persian lime packing using TRIZ and multi-objective genetic algorithms

• Published in: Computers & industrial engineering Vol. 139; p. 105558
• Main Authors: Aguilar-Lasserre, Alberto Alfonso, Torres-Sánchez, Víctor Eduardo, Fernández-Lambert, Gregorio, Azzaro-Pantel, Catherine, Cortes-Robles, Guillermo, Román-del Valle, Missael Alberto
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.01.2020; Elsevier
• Subjects: Chemical engineering; Chemical Sciences; Contradiction matrix; Fresh fruit exportation; Multiobjective genetic algorithm; Packaging innovation; Packing and packaging; TRIZ; Fresh fruit exportation; Packaging innovation; TRIZ; Contradiction matrix; Packing and packaging; Multiobjective genetic algorithm; Fresh fruit exportation Packagù1g lMovatlon; Fresh fruit exportationPackaging innovation
• ISSN: 0360-8352; 1879-0550
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cie.2018.12.005

•A methodology to find a functional packing design for Persian lime is proposed.•Hierarchy of functional requirements for Persian lime packing design through AHP.•Solving of a mathematical model multi-objective for fruit packing design with GA.•Solution of contradictions in packing design supported by TRIZ. This article proposes a novel approach that uses a mathematical model optimized by Genetic Algorithms harmonized with the Russian theory of problem solving and invention (TRIZ) to design an export packing of Persian Lime. The mathematical model (with functional elements of non-spatial type) optimizes the spaces of the Persian Lime Packing, maximizes the Resistance to Vertical Compression and minimizes the Amount of Material Used, according to the operation restrictions of the packing during the transport of the merchandise. This approach is developed in four phases: the identification of the solution space; the optimization of the conceptual design; the application of TRIZ; and the generation of the final proposal solution. The results show the proposed packing (with 28% less cardboard) supports at least the same vertical load with respect to the nearest competitor packing. However, with the same number of packings per pallet and pallets per container, the space used by the packing assembled and deployed in the container is greater by 10% and 38% respectively. Besides, TRIZ includes innovative non-spatial elements such as the airflow and the friction of the product inside the packing. The contribution of this approach can be replicable for the packing design of other horticultural products of the agri-food chain.