Smith, Robert L. (University of Michigan)

Topics:

Operations Research
An introductory talk on the theory and practice of operations research seen as physics of the man-made world. Illustrations are drawn from manufacturing, vehicular traffic systems, and telecommunications.
Dynamic Programming and It's Applications
An introductory talk on the simplicity and power of dynamic programming as a way to both formulate and solve sequential decision making problems. The fundamental principle of optimality and associated concept of "state" are systematically derived from an elementary decision tree formulation of the general problem. The development is illustrated with the problem of optimally allocating a limited resource to a set of completing activities.

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)
An introductory talk on the new and growing field of Intelligent Transportation Systems. ITS are upcoming road transportation systems that use advanced electronics and computer and communications technologies to relieve congestion and improve safety for better utilization of the existing roadway infrastructure. We discuss the ITS challenges to operations research in the important arenas of route guidance and traffic signal control

Background:

• B.S. Physics - Harvey Mudd College
• M.B.A. Management Science - University of California-Berkeley
• M.S. Operations Research - University of California-Berkeley
• Ph.D. Operations Research - University of California-Berkeley

Presently, Altarum/ERIM Russell D. O'Neal Professor of Engineering, Industrial and Operations Engineering. Previously, Lecturer, School of Business Administration, University of California-Berkeley; Member of the Technical Staff at Bell Laboratories in Facilities Network Planning. Former ORSA/TIMS Visiting Lecturer Program Chair. Past Associate Editor of Management Science.