A new integrated system for loading and scheduling in cellular manufacturing

In this paper, a multiple objective optimization technique, based on simulation, and a tabu search algorithm are proposed for loading and scheduling Cellular Manufacturing systems. Machine independent capability units known as Resource Elements are used to define the processing capabilities of machines and the processing requirements of parts. The loading problem is formally represented by a Goal Programming formulation with the objectives of system performance measures that are obtained by a simulation-based scheduling system. The problem is solved by a tabu search based algorithm. The proposed integrated system is implemented in C/C++ programming language and simulation. A practical case study is also explained and reported in detail.