Mechanical Engineering - Theses

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Assembly line sequencing for product-mix

Cother, R. F. ( 1971)

This thesis is concerned with the sequencing of various models of a product when these are manufactured on one assembly line using product-mix. A simplified model of the assembly line is postulated. Four heuristic algorithms are developed which aim at minimizing assembly line length while avoiding operator interference. Two of these algorithms are used in a factorial experiment to determine the relationship between assembly line length and five factors. These factors are characteristics of the production requirement and workload balance. From the experimental results, empirical equations are developed which are a useful aid in the design of new assembly lines or the balancing of existing assembly lines. The experimental results are also analyzed to determine a range of sequencing problems for which near optimal sequences can be expected using the two algorithms.