DEVELOPMENT OF A RULE-BASED FINITE-CAPACITY SCHEDULING SYSTEM

This paper discusses the use of the finite capacity planning model as a basis for a job-shop scheduling system. The suitability of this appr oach for constructing short term schedules with very short lead times is examined. This paper introduces a rule-based scheduling system whos e operation, unlike previous monolithic schedulers, is based around di stinct, though interlinked, processes. Scheduling herein is defined as the selection of a set of orders for manufacture, and the allocation of processing time to each on an acyclic network of processing resourc es. The objectives are, firstly, compliance with all customer deadline s and, secondly, the efficient utilisation of available machine time a nd prevailing machine set-ups.