Sequencing parallel machining operations by genetic algorithms

Parallel machines (mill/turn machining centers) provide a powerful and effi cient machining alternative to the traditional sequential machining process . The underutilization of parallel machines due to their operating complexi ty has increased interest in developing an efficient methodology for sequen cing the parallel machining operations. This paper presents a mixed integer programming model for sequencing parallel machining operations. A genetic- based algorithm for finding an optimal parallel operation sequence on paral lel machines is proposed. Two new genetic operators for solving order-based genetic algorithms and computational experiments are also included. (C) 19 99 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.