A fixed rate launching of mixed- model car sequencing in the multiple assembly lines

This paper aims to sequence mixed-models of assembly cars launching into the final inspection lines using a fixed rate launching interval algorithm. There are four different car models which are simultaneously assembled in the assembly lines. Finally, they are queued up for inspection at the workstations which are designed in 3 parallel lines. Due to the fact that each model has different required production demands; therefore, the exact sequencing pattern in order to meet required production rate is inevitable. Thus, the algorithm in mixed- model assembly line (MMAL) namely fixed rate launching interval is applied. However, the production requirement can't be equally divided among the mentioned 3 parallel lines. Therefore, the fixed rate launching algorithm will be applied to each line. As a result the launching interval of each line is determined at 3.390, 3.630, and 3.630 minutes respectively. It is found that the exact sequencing pattern can be obtained and the required production rate can be achieved. The idle and/or congestion times are kept at minimum; consequently, the remaining time at the end of an hour is considerable increasing from 3.495 to 9.150 minutes in line 1 and slightly increasing from 7.262 to 9.80 minute in line 2 and 3.