4 research outputs found
Simple heuristics for the assembly line worker assignment and balancing problem
We propose simple heuristics for the assembly line worker assignment and
balancing problem. This problem typically occurs in assembly lines in sheltered
work centers for the disabled. Different from the classical simple assembly
line balancing problem, the task execution times vary according to the assigned
worker. We develop a constructive heuristic framework based on task and worker
priority rules defining the order in which the tasks and workers should be
assigned to the workstations. We present a number of such rules and compare
their performance across three possible uses: as a stand-alone method, as an
initial solution generator for meta-heuristics, and as a decoder for a hybrid
genetic algorithm. Our results show that the heuristics are fast, they obtain
good results as a stand-alone method and are efficient when used as a initial
solution generator or as a solution decoder within more elaborate approaches.Comment: 18 pages, 1 figur
The multi-objective assembly line worker integration and balancing problem of type-2
[EN] The consideration of worker heterogeneity in assembly lines has received a fair amount of attention in the literature in the past decade. Most of this exploration uses as motivation the example of assembly lines in sheltered work centers for the disabled. Only recently has the community started looking at the situation faced in assembly lines in the general industrial park, when in the presence of worker heterogeneity. This step raises a number of questions around the best way to incorporate heterogeneous workers in the line, maximizing their integration while maintaining productivity levels. In this paper we propose the use of Miltenburg's regularity criterion and cycle time as metrics for integration of workers and productivity, respectively. We then define, model and develop heuristics for a line balancing problem with these two goals. Results obtained through an extensive set of computational experiments indicate that a good planning can obtain trade-off solutions that perform well in both objectives.This research was supported by CAPES -Brazil and MEC-Spain (coordinated project CAPES DGU 258-12/PHB2011-0012-PC ) and by FAPESP -Brazil (grant number: 2010/19983-6 ).Moreira, MC.; Pastor, R.; Costa, A.; Miralles Insa, CJ. (2017). The multi-objective assembly line worker integration and balancing problem of type-2. Computers & Operations Research. 82:114-125. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cor.2017.01.003S1141258