Method for implementing scheduling systems in discrete-continuous production: the case of oil refineries

This paper addresses the complex problem of production scheduling for continuous production facilities, such as oil refineries and petrochemical plants. The typical challenges of existing models are analyzed in detail, including the difficulty of accounting for all technological and logistic constraints, operational challenges, and the limited time available for schedule preparation and verification. As a solution, a five-step implementation methodology is proposed: 1) model aggregation to ensure solvability and accuracy, 2) selection of data updating methods (manual, semi-automated, or fully automated), 3) user adaptation through a structured planning process and automatic checks, 4) ensuring additivity between monthly plans based on linear programming and shift-daily schedules, and 5) automatic monitoring of plan and actual asynchrony to detect deviations. The methodology is embedded into the system implementation process, linking methodological principles with each project stage. It constitutes a replicable approach applicable to petrochemical and other continuous production facilities, ensuring the creation of a robust and adequate system capable of operating under the high dynamics and complexity of modern production.