A prototype genetic algorithm-enhanced multi-objective scheduler for manufacturing systems

This paper describes the development of a prototype genetic algorithm-enhanced multi-objective scheduler for manufacturing systems. A framework of the prototype scheduler is proposed which accepts data input from a database or file and outputs a near-optimal schedule. A scheduling toolbox with scheduling models for job shop, flow shop and cellular manufacturing, forms part of the prototype scheduler; and the schedule builder transforms the near-optimal solution into a valid shop floor schedule. The prototype system was validated for various cases, with and without constraints and multiple objective functions, (makespnn and tardiness), enforced simultaneously with constraints. In the first case, the schedule generated was comparable to those obtained by other researchers. The prototype sq;stem was also tested for its ability to handle dynamic scheduling, e.g. a rush order. The results showed that all the job orders could be rescheduled within the original makespan, even though the order of one of the jobs was doubled.