title: What algorithm should I use to maximize resource utilization in production planning?
body: <p>What kind of algorithm should I use to solve this problem?</p>
  
  <pre><code>Ore is blended in a particular ratio to produce metal with the desired quality characteristics. The ore is blended in batches of 5, the batches are to be mixed in a particular ratio that will maximize ore utilization as well as produce an output of the desired quality. 
  1. A batch of ore contains 30 or more minerals
  2. The percentage proportion of each mineral within a batch is known
  3. Batches blended with each other should produce a product meeting a criteria such as
     0.5 &lt; m1 &lt; 0.52
     0.2 &lt; m2 &lt; 0.21
     a3 &lt; m3 &lt; b3
     ....
     ....
     a30 &lt; m30 &lt; b30
     where m1, m2, m3 ... m30 are percentage presence of ore in the final product and a1,a2...a30;b1,b2...b30 are tolerable limits within which quality is maintained
  4. In what order should n batches (n &lt;= 20) be processed to maximize ore output
  5. In what ratio should the batches be blended so that quality is maintained
  </code></pre>
  
  <p>This sounds mainstream enough for someone to have tackled it but it is outside my limited algorithmic knowledge. Any pointers to solve this is much appreciated.</p>