Smart Computing-Enabled Bi-layer Optimization for Vending Machine Deployment and Shelf Display

This paper presents a smart computing approach to optimizing vending machine operations. A bi-layer optimization framework is developed to enhance profitability by strategically locating machines, selecting optimal product assortments, and configuring shelf displays. This framework leverages metaheuristic algorithms to efficiently solve the complex optimization problem for large-scale systems (up to 5,000 machines). Comparative analysis demonstrates the superiority of genetic algorithms over simulated annealing. This research contributes to optimizing vending machine operations through intelligent and efficient resource allocation.