Linearizing and minimizing an absolute term

Problems with modeling
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Monsef
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Linearizing and minimizing an absolute term

Post by Monsef »

Hi,

If we want to linearize and minimize an absolute term like |A-B|, where A and B are free integer variables. How do I do it?

Also, if the term changed to |A-1| what is the linear model for that?

I have solved the second part:
A-1<= x
1-A>=x
X>=0,
Min x

Is this correct?.
Monsef Tahir
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bussieck
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Re: Linearizing and minimizing an absolute term

Post by bussieck »

Your expression is correct but it involves to minimize x which is hard when you try to just substitute |.| in a model. The absmip model (https://www.gams.com/latest/gamslib_ml/ ... bsmip.html) shows how to reformulate |.| with the help of a binary variable. You will need to have the some bounds on the variables involved or need indicators or a very complex SOS1 reformulation.

-Michael
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