An integer programming application to solve sequencer mix problems in printed circuit board production

Abstract

The production of printed circuit board in the electronics industry requires that the taped components at the insertion machines input be in a predetermined order or sequence. The sequencing operation is performed on a microcomputer-controlled sequencing machine which represents a substantial proportion of both the initial capital and direct costs. The sequencing costs are affected by two sequential decisions: sequencer mix or the size and the number of sequencers required to meet the production requirements, and the processing schedule at each sequencer. An integer programming approach is presented for determining the optimum sequencer mix and is illustrated by means of an industrial case study example.