An integrated decision support system for FMS production planning and scheduling problems

This paper discusses planning and scheduling problems for efficient use of an FMS and presents an integrated decision support system for dealing with these problems. The decision support system, FMSDS (Flexible Manufacturing Systems Decision Support System), includes several modules: data handling module, part selection module, loading module, load adjusting module, scheduling module and simulation module. This paper suggests the solution methodology of each subproblem. Also, an integrated interface scheme between the subproblems is presented. The interface scheme considers the relationships between the subproblems and generates solutions using hierarchical and looping approaches. FMSDS is made up of six alternative models considering three loading objectives and two production order processing strategies. Performance comparison among the six alternatives is shown using the non-terminating simulation techniques.