Batch Production with Unit Load Design and Scheduling Consideration

Abstract

Despite the fact that most batch jobs are moved through shops in unit loads, very limited work has been reported on how to select the best unit load size and the routing of these unit loads through the machines to minimize the batch completion time. In this chapter, the problem of determining the best unit load size for a job and the routing of these unit loads through the machines in a multistage system with material handling consideration is addressed. The design objective is the minimization of the batch completion time. Both stationary and mobile based material handling systems are considered. Results indicate that the unit load and routing requirements for mobile and stationary systems are different.