Title: Application of genetic algorithm in corrugated board production scheduling

Authors: Thanh-Minh Nguyen; Ngoc-Hien Do

Addresses: Department of Industrial Systems Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam ' Department of Industrial Systems Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Abstract: This paper focuses on solving the issue of high trim waste in a corrugated box factory, which arises from production scheduling with the goal of minimising setup times. Consequently, it becomes imperative to account for the trade-off between setup time and trim waste. The proposed solution using genetic algorithm is developed based on the existing scheduling procedure, which aims to solve two interrelated problems simultaneously: firstly, sequencing jobs on corrugator, and secondly, allocating the most suitable paper reels to each job. The objective is to achieve an ideal sequence of jobs paired with the appropriate paper reel allocation. This sequence should minimise the overall cost, encompassing both setup cost and trim cost. The results of this study demonstrate the potential for significant cost savings in the production process. This underscores the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm in enhancing cost-effectiveness within corrugated box manufacturing.

Keywords: corrugated box manufacturing; production scheduling; genetic algorithm; paper reel allocation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSOM.2026.155447

International Journal of Services and Operations Management, 2026 Vol.54 No.3, pp.295 - 312

Received: 06 May 2024
Accepted: 26 May 2024
Published online: 03 Aug 2026 *

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