A distributed evolutionary simulation optimization approach for the configuration of multiproduct kanban systems

ISSN： 1362-3052

Source： International Journal of Computer Integrated Manufacturing, Vol.14, Iss.5, 2001-10, pp. : 421-430

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Abstract

The performance of multiproduct kanban systems is strongly dependent on a set of numerical and non-numerical parameters, such as the number of kanbans between machines, the transport lot sizes, the safety storage sizes and the sequencing rules. Configuring such systems consists of determining a value for each parameter in order to optimize a performance criterion. The authors propose a distributed simulation optimization method based on evolutionary principles, which is capable of simultaneously taking into account various parameters involved in the configuration of multiproduct kanban systems. In order to improve the quality of the results and to reduce computing time, concurrent searches are managed through a network of workstations. This approach is illustrated by the configuration of a kanban system comprising four machines in line, which process three types of product.