A dynamic scheduling algorithm for a multiple-load multiple-carrier system

The importance and benefits of using multiple-load carriers in advanced manufacturing systems has been well documented in recent studies. A Dynamic Scheduling Algorithm (DSA) for multiple-load carriers was developed and analysed in the present study using a manufacturing system arranged around a single loop serviced by several multiple-load carriers. In order to evaluate the DSA performance, criteria measures such as throughput, cycle time, WIP and carrier utilization were chosen and compared through simulation with those achieved by three other scheduling rules, Least Work remaining (LWKR), Maximum Utilization (MAX_ UT) and First Come First Serve (FCFS). The simulation results also serve to analyse the effect that the carrier fleet size has on the above criteria measures when total carrying capacity is kept constant.