Production scheduling problem with assembly flow shop systems: mathematical optimisation models

Abstract

This work presents four mixed integer linear programming (MILP) models for the assembly flow shop problem in order to minimize the makespan. This production environment has two stages: production and assembly. The first stage consists of different machines designed to manufacture parts of a product. The second stage is intended for a final assembly. The performance measure considered is highly essential for industries from different segments, as it focuses on the best use of the time available for production. Statistical analysis with different tools was used to assess the performance and efficiency of mathematical models, emphasizing the analysis of performance profiles. Results showed that mathematical models are efficient, and the position-based model presented the best results for small and large instances during computational experimentation. All mathematical models can be used as direct tools in decision-making for the production sequencing problem in the approached environment.

KEYWORDS:

• Assembly flow shop
• mixed integer linear programming
• scheduling
• makespan
• two-stage assembly

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, [J. R. S. S and H. Y. F.], upon reasonable request.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

José Renatho da Silva Santana

Jose Renatho da Silva Santana is a production Engineer graduated from the Pontifical Catholic University of Goiás. Master in Production Engineering at the Faculty of Science and Technology (FCT) at Federal university of Goiás (UFG). Works as a researcher in the field of Production Sequencing (Scheduling). Has knowledge in project management with a focus on Agile Methodologies. He currently works as a project manager in a consulting and advisory company for companies with e-commerce. Developed research and extension project in a food industry with a focus on reducing costs and waste, as well as having experience in developing projects focused on Lean Manufacturing and people management in the application of agile routines focused on strategic and operational results in companies of different segments.

Helio Yochihiro Fuchigami

Helio Yochihiro Fuchigami is a professor and researcher at the Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar). He researches in the Production Scheduling and Operational Research area. Computer Scientist from UNESP, Master and phD in Production Engineering from USP, with part of his doctorate at the Polytechnic University of Valencia, Spain. Post-doctorate at the University of New South Wales (Australian Defense Force Academy) in Australia and at UNESP/São José do Rio Preto. Chronicler and poet, with three published books.