A Multi-Objective Approach for Transfer Line Optimization

In this paper, a problem of line balancing and equipment/workers selection for a transfer line is considered. Such a line is composed of a series of workstations. Each contains one or more workers and pieces of equipment. All the tasks assigned at the same workstation are executed simultaneously. Constraints related to equipment and/or workers compatibility, as well as precedence constraint related to tasks are known. A multi-objective approach is proposed for the design (or reconfiguration) of such lines. The techniques proposed are based on a genetic algorithm of type NSGA-II. The results of the experimental studies are reported. They show the relative efficiency of the approach suggested in comparison with existing work.