A model for capacity planning of flexible robotic assembly systems

This paper presents a cost-based model for capacity planning of flexible robotic assembly systems capable of handling batch assembly of multiple end products. The non-linear integer programming model is based on a specific cell design procedure that considers two important aspects, such as robot selection, and cell configuration, in forming the assembly cell. The model incorporates stochastic variations in the batch arrival rate, batch size, and processing times. The solution procedure for the model is discussed and an example problem is used to demonstrate the use of the model for real world applications.