Solving linear programming tasks using the MATLAB and “Find solutions” add-ins of the Excel (by example a problem with mixed constraints)

Abstract

The aim of the research leads to study optimization methods, modern software solutions for decision making with MATLAB and the GNU Octave, as well as Microsoft Excel and LibreOffice Calc spreadsheets. The task of the study is to analyze existing approaches to solving linear programming problems and to determine the optimal solution. The object of the study is the process of finding the optimal solution of linear programming problems. The subject of the study is solving the linear programming problems using the MATLAB and GNU Octave functions, MS Excel “Find solution” add-on, and the “Solver” component of the LibreOffice Calc. On the example of a specific problem, a system of inequalities is compiled and a goal function is constructed. The linprog function of the MATLAB package calculates the optimal value and the extreme value of the objective function. A similar solution is implemented using the GNU Octave package. Calculations are performed using the glpk function. Next, we solve this task using the Excel “Find Solution” add-on, and the “Solver” component of the LibreOffice Calc. When comparing the results of solving the problem posed by using the different apllications, we can conclude that they coincide. The results of the research are planned to be generalized for the performing of individual student tasks, coursework, writing qualification bachelor’s and master’s theses.