Title: Evolutionary algorithm to solve an FMS design problem

Authors: Pinaki P. Mohanty

Addresses: IL&FS Financial Center, Bandra-Kurla Complex, Bandra (E), Mumbai-400 051, India

Abstract: This paper presents a non-linear integer programming mathematical model to determine the optimal selection of machines and assignment of tasks in a Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS). The model is aimed at supporting the manufacturing manager of an FMS to choose the flexible machines. Flexibility measures have been incorporated for evaluating the FMS. The selections of machines and tasks assignment are based on the effectiveness of machines to perform the tasks and the weightage of the tasks. Evolutionary Algorithm (EA) is used to solve the proposed model. A comparison of EA and integer programming methods is performed to investigate the effectiveness of using EA.

Keywords: flexibility; evolutionary algorithms; genetic algorithms; flexible manufacturing system design; FMS design.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMTM.2003.003409

International Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management, 2003 Vol.5 No.3, pp.279 - 296

Published online: 06 Sep 2003 *

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