Lemoine-OR Algorithms
Description

What this method is

Least Unit Cost is a fast ULS heuristic in the Average-cost family. It constructs a feasible replenishment plan without claiming an optimality proof. Use it only when the documented applicability conditions match the instance.

How it works

Core idea

The method scans the planning horizon and constructs replenishment cycles according to its published decision rule. The library then reconstructs production, inventory, setups and cost components through the common heuristic solution builder.

Implementation in ULSAlgorithmsLeast relevant cost per unit
Use it

Minimal C# example

using ULSAlgorithms.Abstractions;
using ULSAlgorithms.Models;
using ULSAlgorithms.Heuristics;

var problem = new UlsProblem(
    demands:             [20.0, 30.0, 25.0, 40.0],
    setupCosts:          [200.0, 200.0, 200.0, 200.0],
    unitProductionCosts: [0.0, 0.0, 0.0, 0.0],
    holdingCosts:        [4.0, 4.0, 4.0, 0.0]);

IUlsSolver solver = new LeastUnitCostSolver();
var result = solver.Solve(problem);

Console.WriteLine(result.Status);
Console.WriteLine(result.ObjectiveValue);

The input example intentionally uses stationary, positive-demand data so it is compatible with restricted methods too. Always check the applicability box for your own instance.

Scientific source

Reference & provenance

Classical Least Unit Cost (LUC) lot-sizing rule