Pattern based vocabulary building for effectively sequencing mixed-model assembly lines

In this paper, the problem of sequencing mixed-model assembly lines in case of fixed rate launching and closed stations is considered. The problem con sists of finding an intermixed sequence of different models of a basic prod uct, which are jointly produced on an assembly line, such that customer dem ands are fulfilled and total work overload is minimized. For solving this p roblem an informed tabu search procedure with a pattern based vocabulary bu ilding strategy is developed. Computational tests demonstrate that consider able improvements are obtained by comparison to methods which do not incorp orate such an approach.