A genetic algorithm for job-shop scheduling in a semiconductor manufacturing system

The paper describes an approach to solving a job-shop scheduling problem in a flexible semiconductor manufacturing system. The application refers to the production of memories in a new module built in the ST Microelectronics plant in Catania (Italy). The approach uses a genetic algorithm, which has been devised for the particular industrial application. The paper focuses on the scheduling approach and on how it improves performance of the plant.