An optimization model for worker assignment of a mixed model vehicle production assembly line under worker mobility

Abstract

In this study, we consider the problem of worker assignment in a mixed model vehicle production assembly line. In particular, we focus on large size vehicles like busses and trucks that have multi zones in which workers can perform their assigned tasks simultaneously. This situation requires balancing the workloads of workers assigned in a certain set of workstations. Over the assembly line, it is allowed that workers may change their workstations during the same cycle. Moreover, each worker has a certain skill level which configures the possible set of tasks to be undertaken. Scale of the product, worker mobility and skill differences make the studied problem complicated. We propose a worker assignment model and develop a heuristic algorithm whose performance is to be evaluated against the optimal seeking methods in terms of small sized problems. We report on the validation of our heuristic algorithm in real …