FMS loading in a tool-shared environment with partially groupedmachines

摘要

In a tool-shared FMS environment, parts can be routed to machines, which do not have all the required tools. Thisrncan result in higher routing flexibility and larger part type variety produced simultaneously in the system. In thisrnpaper, the trade off between high routing flexibility and frequent tool handling traffic is explored. An FMS loadingrnmodel and a heuristic algorithm is proposed to maximize routing flexibility while maintaining a Minimum ResidentrnTool Ratio in assigning part types to machines. This study indicates that it is not always beneficial to increasernrouting flexibility without adequately considering limitations on tool transport systems.