The deviation-flow refueling location model for optimizing a network of refueling stations

This research develops and applies a mixed-integer linear programming model that optimizes the locations of fueling stations considering not only the limited driving range of vehicles but also the necessary deviations that drivers are likely to make from their shortest paths in order to refuel their vehicles when the refueling station network is sparse. The Deviation-Flow Refueling Location Model (DFRLM) locates facilities to maximize the total flows refueled on deviation paths. The flow demand captured by the stations is assumed to decrease as the deviation that drivers must make increases. Test results indicate that the maximum allowable deviation and the specific deviation penalty functional form do have a measurable effect on the optimal locations of facilities and objective function values as well.

► Development of a mathematical model for locating refueling stations. ► Considerations on vehicles’ driving range and the necessary deviations of drivers. ► Maximization of the total flows refueled on deviation paths. ► Decrease of the captured demand flows with the increase of deviation distances. ► Specification of deviation behavior has a measurable effect on the results.