Method of supplying multiple loads from multiple sources over an interconnected network of defined paths

摘要

The method defines a distribution solution for supplying product to a plurality of loads from a plurality of sources via a network of substantially linear path segments that are interconnected at nodes. A combination of minimum spanning trees (MST) and a shortest-path tree (SPT) are applied to the network to form a composite path. The resulting composite path defines a plurality of closed-loop paths in the network. Excluded from consideration in the distribution solution are any of the path segments not included in the composite path. All closed-loop paths are then eliminated by excluding from consideration the one or more path segments having a total weight value that is greatest from each of the closed-loop paths. As a result, a composite tree is defined. The composite tree is then redefined by excluding from consideration in the distribution solution any of the path segments of the composite tree that are not part of a path linking one of the sources to one of the loads. Temporary paths are defined outside of the network to connect the sources. Temporary closed-loop paths are thereby defined by a combination of the temporary paths and the composite tree so-redefined. For each temporary closed-loop path, one or more path segments having a total weight value that is greatest are excluded from consideration in the distribution solution. The distribution solution is defined by remaining ones of the path segments that i) have not been so-excluded by any of the previous steps and ii) are part of a path linking one of the sources to one of the loads.