Development of a scheduling model and solution algorithms for carriers in the automotive manufacturing environment

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The aim of this thesis was to develop a scheduling model and solution algorithms for ageneric problem that can be used to solve a scheduling problem at Autocarriers.The main characteristics of the generic problem are the following: Transporters are requiredto deliver various containers (each having a specific origin vertex and destination vertex) bytransporting them through a network. Each transporter has a restricted cargo capacity whichis a function of the number and types of containers loaded on the transporter. Containers canbe stored temporarily at any vertex so that they can be moved by one or more transporters.Costs are incurred by delivering containers later than the required time and for transportersmoving along the arcs of the network.A problem definition was created that describes the various entities of the generic problem.The problem definition was used to develop a scheduling model consisting of an objectivefunction and a solution space. The solution space is defined by a set of conditions thatdescribes all valid solutions to the problem.Two heuristic algorithms were developed to generate solutions to the problem. Themaximum service level algorithm attempts to deliver containers on time without any regard tothe cost involved. The second algorithm, the minimum total cost algorithm, attempts tominimise the sum of the costs of the problem.A software tool was developed that can be used to define an instance (or specificoccurrence) of the generic problem and solve the problem approximately by means of thesolution algorithms. The software tool has a simulation capability that is useful for evaluatingthe solution algorithms; hence various changes to a problem can be evaluated.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University