MIXED INTEGER LINEAR PROGRAMMING MODEL FOR THE OPTIMIZATION OF SUGARCANE HARVESTING AND PROCESSING

Harvesting is a complex logistical operation in the sugarcane supply chain and its synchronization with other operations is crucial to ensure the flow of raw material from farms to mills efficiently, avoiding the waste of resources. This work proposes a mathematical model to optimize the supply chain, integrating the sequencing of the harvest fronts in the fields with the planning of the milling process for the production of sugar, bioethanol and electricity. Preventive maintenance windows for the mill and, consequently, the equipment used in harvesting and transport are incorporated. The objective is to minimize the costs of moving the fronts and preventive maintenance, considering operational restrictions and meeting the demand for products without delays. Numerical tests were carried out with instances that simulate reality in small and medium-sized plants. The preliminary results, which proved to be promising, are presented and discussed.