7,337,031

Optimized deployment of parts in a distribution network

Issued:  February 26, 2008

Assignee:  i2 Technologies US, Inc. (Dallas, TX)

Inventors:  Birjandi; Rosa H. (Newton, MA), Bakkalbasi; Omer (Mahopac, NY)

Abstract:  A method for deploying parts is disclosed. Locations that include supply locations and demand locations are defined. A supply location supplies parts to a demand location. A demand is computed for each part at each location. An availability lead-time is estimated for each part at each location. A lead-time demand is computed for each part at each location using the availability lead-times for the part. A stock level is computed for each part at each location. A completely filled demand is determined from the lead-time demands and the stock levels, and a partially filled demand is determined from the lead-time demands and the stock levels. A coverage function for the parts at the locations is generated from the completely filled demand and the partially filled demand.