Using a genetic algorithm to schedule the space-constrained AGV-based prefabricated bathroom units manufacturing system

In this article, scheduling problem of a space-constrained AGV-based prefabricated bathroom units (PBU) manufacturing system is addressed. Space becomes a key resource to this manufacturing system because a very large space is required to accommodate the settling units as well as the queues. Although line balancing helps to reduce the queues, the system is still prone to deadlock due to limited space. Hence, in order to prevent deadlock situations, the production start times of PBUs have to be controlled. A genetic algorithm is proposed with the objective to decide operation for each workstation and to choose a start time for each PBU. The project duration is minimised while satisfying precedence relations and resource availabilities. A rule-based simulation approach is used to estimate the fitness value of every GA chromosomes. At last, the experiment based on data from an industrial project shows that the proposed algorithm has the potential to guide the real practice.