Outline of the proposed model
In this section the explanation is focused on the largest scale sub-procedure, i.e.
integer programming model development. This model is described by a more
general expression than in our former research, whereby the feature is realised
by a relaxation of constraints such that all parts and components are enabled to
be produced and procured in any country. The rough description of the model,
especially the assumptions, is given as follows:
. Type of vehicles in consideration: small/medium size four-wheel vehicles
for personal/business use.
. Final assembly quantities: assembled volume in each country is
supposed to be equal to the estimated sales volume in each country.
. Considered parts and components of the final vehicle products: It is
known that a four-wheel car consists of between 20,000 and 40,000 parts
and components depending on its configuration. This means that many
technological resources are necessary to produce vehicles. However, the
number of parts and components are supposed to be limited up to ten
essential elements for simplification of the problem. That is,
Engine sub-parts: Code number 1-5
± pistons; Code number 1
± cylinders; Code number 2
± valves; Code number 3
± shafts; Code number 4
± electronic parts; Code number 5
± engine components; Code number 6
± transmission components; Code number 7
± steering components; Code number 8
± pressed body components; Code number 9
± electronic instrument components; Code number 10