A Study on Tool Allocation Method Considering Load Balancing and Optimization of Transportation Based on Mathematical Programming

A new tool allocation method is proposed in this paper to consider both the load balancing and optimization of a transportation based on a mathematical problem. The proposed tool allocation method consists of two steps. In the first step, the individual tools are divided into tool sets based on 0-1 programming problem in order to balance a total machining time by using the individual tool sets and reducing a total number of transportation processes. In the second step, the individual tool sets are allocated to the Machining Centers (MCs) based on a quadratic assignment problem in order to minimize transportation total distances of jobs.

Modeling and Simulation of Tool Cycle in Manufacturing Cell

The paper addresses issues concerning modeling and analysis of tool flow within a three-machine manufacturing cell used for small batch manufacturing of a definite spectrum of prismatic parts. The approach utilizes a method for job and tool allocation to work centers with limited number of machines and capacity of tool resources, based on the analysis of formalized relations: job - tool sets required. Selected tool flow control rules are considered with respect to assumed performance measures of such machining cell. These rules are amply studied using methods and means of interactive simulation. A case study derived from industrial practice, using the database of a medium-sized manufacturing company is also included.