Patent ID: 7072732
Filing Date: 2006-07-04
Classification: G05B,G06Q,Y02P

Abstract:
1. A multi-item multi-process lot size scheduling method in which a computer generates a production schedule applied to a multi-item multi-process production system that uses a plurality of machines to process items corresponding to a plurality of steps during these steps, at least one machine or process enabling the items to be switched in connection with setup, the method comprising: solving an item-based one-dimensional sub-optimization problem independently of the other items, the problem being under a first constraint on machine interference between items and a second constraint that limits a work-in-process inventory to a non-negative value, the problem corresponding to a multi-item multi-process scheduling problem and being solved to make out a schedule for each item processed using the corresponding process; carrying out coordination required to meet the first and second constraints on the basis of an item-based solution found in the solving; causing the solving to be reexecuted every time the coordinating is executed; and generating a production schedule on the basis of the item-based solution found in the solving when the first and second constraints are met.