Line Balancing-Sequencing for Mixed-Model Assembly

Abstract

Mixed-model assembly occurs when more than one model of the same general product are intermixed on one assembly line. The amount of work required to assemble units can vary from model to model, creating an uneven flow of work along the line. This paper describes a procedure of adapting single-model line balancing techniques to mixed-model schedules. The paper also introduces a sequencing procedure for determining the order in which models are to flow down the line. Because the line balancing and sequencing procedures consider a wide variety of factors, they are applicable to many types of assembly lines.