Kuljetusfunktio

Kuljetusfunktio, known in English as the transport function, is a concept in economics and operations research that describes the cost associated with moving a certain quantity of goods from a supply point to a demand point. It is a fundamental element in solving transportation problems, which aim to minimize the total cost of shipping goods from multiple origins to multiple destinations.

The transport function is typically represented mathematically as a cost per unit. This cost can encompass various factors such as distance, fuel, labor, insurance, and any other expenses incurred during the transportation process. For instance, if it costs 5 euros to transport one ton of grain from a farm to a mill, then the transport function for that specific route and commodity is 5 euros per ton.

In the context of a transportation problem, multiple supply points (e.g., factories) and multiple demand points (e.g., retail stores) exist. The goal is to determine the optimal allocation of goods from each supply point to each demand point, taking into account the respective transport functions, to satisfy all demand while minimizing the overall transportation expenditure. This often involves using linear programming techniques.

The accuracy of the transport function significantly impacts the efficiency of the solution to a transportation problem. Realistic and comprehensive cost estimations are crucial for effective logistics planning and resource allocation. Variations in the transport function can arise due to factors like fluctuating fuel prices, changes in shipping routes, or the introduction of new transportation technologies.