Task sequence optimization for a dual-robot assembly system using evolutionary algorithms

Abstract

For the purpose of improving assembly task productivity, a multirobot assembly system has been introduced. In this system, multirobots operate simultaneously and transfer parts from the part feeders to the printed circuit boards (PCBs) moving at a constant speed on the conveyor line. To exploit the capacity of this system to the full, the system should be set up with an optimal conveyor line speed and each robot should be operated along a proper assembly sequence. In this paper, a dual-robot assembly system is considered, and an efficient algorithm for concurrent optimization of conveyor line speed and assembly sequence is developed. Various evolution algorithms are tried as an optimization method, and, based on the results, the optimal conveyor line speed and assembly sequence are obtained. When using the optimized conveyor line speed and assembly sequence, the operation time can be reduced by up to 22.8 per cent compared with the initial set-up.