Segment set-based part input sequencing in flexible manufacturing systems

In competitive and uncertain business environments, manufacturing firms face various challenges requiring quick response, customisation and cost effectiveness to sustain competitive advantage. This paper proposes a segment set-based approach for the part input sequencing problem of flexible manufacturing systems (FMSs). The segment set theorems are built for the development of the segment set-based approach for the problem. A numerical study is done using simulation, and validated through statistical analyses. Our approach results in the significant performance improvement of the FMSs. Managerial implications are discussed. Further research is also provided.