Högskolan i Skövde

In the face of global market challenges, manufacturers place a high priority on the improvement of their production system efficiency to sustain their competitive stance. Flexible Transfer Lines (FTLs) stand out for their adaptability, enabled by cutting-edge Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology, automated transport, and sophisticated control software, allowing for swift adjustments to changes in product specifications. These systems are identified as essential for industries dependent on mass production, such as the automotive and aerospace sectors, where a significant impact on productivity and cost efficiency is seen due to operational efficiency. This study introduces a heuristic approach for balancing FTLs. The heuristic is characterized by uniquely incorporating a broad spectrum of real-world considerations, including equipment-related, time-related, and operational-related characteristics. Through a detailed numerical example, the practical application and effectiveness of the heuristic are demonstrated, showcasing its capacity to produce a feasible solution.