A multi goal optimization model for set-up reduction of machine lines

The need for having short set-up times in manufacturing systems is growing at a fast rate nowadays. Previously we developed a quantitative optimization model that minimizes set-up time for multi-machine situations where multiple people are involved in performing the changeover. However, this model only had one objective - the minimization of the downtime of the line - which could result in many optimal solutions. This paper describes the second phase of this research, we introduce additional objective functions, based on realistic requirements - like balanced workload and minimized walking distance. Hence, they narrow down the set of optimal solutions; thus providing a better solution since more practical requirements are taken into account. A real life case is used as an example.