Optimizing the first type of U-shaped assembly line balancing problems

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Computer Engineering Department, Eastern Mediterranean University, Via Mersin 10, Famagusta, TRNC, Turkey

2 Department of Industrial Engineering, Girne American University, Via Mersin 10, Kyrenia, TRNC, Turkey

3 Industrial Engineering Department, Girne American University, Via Mersin 10, Kyrenia, TRNC, Turkey

Abstract

In the literature, there are various types of assembly line balancing problems. Consequently, different types of solution approaches such as exact, heuristic, and metaheuristics have been proposed to solve such problems. In this research, we are going to propose a metaheuristic solution method based on applied grouping evolution strategies to solve the u-shaped assembly line balancing problem where the aim is the minimization of the number of workstations considering a given cycle time for the assembly line. By introducing the just-in-time (JIT) production principle, it can be proven that the U-shaped assembly line system has a better performance than the traditional straight-line system. Different test problems from the literature are solved and key indexes like the line efficiency, smoothness index, and variation, are calculated for the problems. Then the proposed method is compared to one of the recent solutions approached based on the genetic algorithm. The results show that the proposed method has the potential t be considered as one of the most efficient methods in this field.

Keywords

References

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Annals of Optimization Theory and Practice
Volume 3, Issue 4
December 2020
Pages 65-82

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