Title: Dynamic batch scheduling in a continuous cycle-constrained production system

Authors: Matteo Mario Savino, Erminia Meoli, Ming Luo, Ming Mao Wong

Addresses: Department of Engineering, University of Sannio, Piazza Roma, 21 – 82100 Benevento, Italy. ' Department of Engineering, University of Sannio, Piazza Roma, 21 – 82100 Benevento, Italy. ' Singapore Institute of Manufacturing, 71 Nanyang Drive, Singapore. ' Singapore Institute of Manufacturing, 71 Nanyang Drive, Singapore

Abstract: In this work we address the problem of batch sizing and sequencing in a continuous metal sheets painting line with the aim to minimise set-up costs and maximise certain production parameters like work in process and throughput. In such production systems a set-up activity is needed when the painting colour has to be changed; colour requirements can be different for metal sheets produced in the same or in different batches, or when production line is discontinued for a certain time period due to over capacity, roster changing or maintenance activities. Starting from the Wagner–Whitin model, a new heuristic approach is presented with the objective to minimise the number of set-ups to be made for each lot. The heuristic approach has been validated through a discrete events simulation, in which the main production parameter is monitored to verify the effective improvements.

Keywords: batch optimisation; dynamic scheduling; sequencing; set-up times; batch scheduling; cycle-constrained production; continuous production; batch sizing; sheet metal painting; set-up costs; work-in-process; throughput; Wagner–Whitin model; discrete event simulation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSOI.2010.037001

International Journal of Services Operations and Informatics, 2010 Vol.5 No.4, pp.313 - 329

Published online: 20 Nov 2010 *

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