Multiperiod tool and production assignment in flexible manufacturing systems

Flexible manufacturing systems (FMSs) are usually composed of general purpose machines with automatic tool changing and integrated material handling. FMSs offer the advantages of high utilization levels and simultaneous production of a variety of part types with minimal changeover time. Although the trend in FMS operation appears to be towards unmanned production, there is much diversity in the policies under which FMSs can be operated. These policies are governed to some extent by the available technological resources. In this paper several policies are described. Tool loading and production assignment models for setting production plans over a short term planning horizon when using these policies are then formulated. Heuristics for the solution of these models are detailed and computational results are presented.