An optimization grouping method in a multi-line manufacturing system

A tailored product grouping method using binary integer linear program for optimization is developed for two production lines in a food packaging manufacturer. A mathematical model is created to assign products to the two dedicated production lines with an objective to minimize the total setup times. The optimization model is subject to capacity constraints on each line. With the demand of each product entered, the model is able to generate an optimal production grouping and sequence as well as the minimal total setup time required. Compared with CAS current fixed grouping method, this linear program grouping method reduces total setup time generally by 17% and prevents both production lines from overloading. Also, this grouping method allows the Make-to-Order food packaging manufacturer to respond to changes in demand volume and product mix by changing the product grouping accordingly.

Department dc:contributor.department

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dept. of Mechanical Engineering.

Grantor dc:publisher

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2010

Author dc:creator

• He, Xi, M. Eng. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Stephen C. Graves.

• Mechanical Engineering.

Statement dc:rights

• M.I.T. theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. See provided URL for inquiries about permission.

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/7582

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/63231

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dspace.mit.edu:1721.1/63231