On solving single machine optimization problems in electronics assembly

This paper deals with optimization problems arising in printed circuit board (PCB) assembly. Today's automated manufacturing systems involve a large variety of special purpose robots that together form the production line. The organization of the production includes several problems to be solved, starting from top-level tactical decisions at scheduling, through product grouping and line balancing, to single machine optimization problems. The paper deals on the single machine optimization: determining the order of component insertions and scheduling the assignment of different nozzles (tools) to the printing heads. The aim is to maximize the throughput of the machine. The machine type considered is the general surface mounting (GSM) machine. The problems solved by modeling the production situation and the machine, decomposing the arising optimization problems into hierarchical levels, and developing effective heuristics for solving them. The practical results of the new optimizing system show significant increase (5-10%) in the productivity when compared to the current state.