This paper is concerned about how to optimize the input sequence for a mixed-model assembly line (MMAL) with limited intermediate buffers. Three optimization objectives are considered simultaneously: minimizing the total production rate variation, the total setup, and the total assembly cost. The mathematical model is presented by incorporating the three objectives. Since the problem is NP-hard...

A mixed-model assembly line is widely used nowadays in industry. Effectively applying mixed-model assembly can result in smooth part usage and balanced workloads on the assembly line. The problem of production planning in terms of scheduling various models on an assembly line over a time horizon is studied here. The problem assumes that each model has a given range of production days within the...

This paper addresses the common cycle multi-product lot-scheduling problem in flexible flow lines (FFL) where the product demands are deterministic and constant over a finite planning horizon. Objective is minimizing the sum of setup costs, work-in-process and final products inventory holding costs per time unite while satisfying the demands without backlogging. This problem consists of a combi...

A shortest-route formulation of the mixed-model assembly line balancing problem is presented. Common tasks across models are assumed to exist and these tasks are performed in the same stations. The formulation is based on an algorithm which solves the single-model version of the problem. The mixed-model system is transformed into a singlemodel system with a combined precedence diagram. The mode...

The increasing market demand for product variety forces manufacturers to design mixed-model assembly lines on which different product models can be switched back and forth and mixed together with little changeover costs. This paper describes the design and implementation of an optimization-based scheduling algorithm for mixed-model compressor assembly lines of Toshiba with complicated component...