A hierarchical approach is presented to deal with the problem of batching with tool configuration, and routing problems in flexible manufacturing systems. The objectives considered here are balancing workload and minimizing the total number of cutting tools. In the top level of the approach, an appropriate tool allocation strategy is determined by structuring the relationship between parts and tools. Based on the selected tool allocation strategy, batching tool configuration, and routing are carried out at the middle level and the bottom level of the hierarchical approach in consideration of the limited capacity tool magazine and the available machining time of each machine. A different type of heuristics is proposed for each tool allocation strategy to obtain an acceptable solution in a reasonable computation time. A numerical example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
flexible manufacturing system, group technology, machine-loading, heuristics
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