Method for optimizing a line of pick and place machines
AssigneeKoninlijke Philips Electronics N.V.
InventorsLarry J. Eshelman, J. David Schaffer
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A genetic algorithm is used to balance a line of pick and place machines. The genetic algorithm uses a modularized chromosome string having at least three parts indicating 1) a division of parts between the pick and place machines, 2) a layout of a first pick and place machine, and 3) a layout of a second pick and place machine, respectively. A heuristic layout generator cycles with the genetic algorithm to create simulated layouts from populations of chromosome strings produced by the genetic algorithm. The heuristic layout generator is also modularized, having separate modules corresponding to the three parts of the chromosome string.
Claims16
A method for configuring a line of manufacturing equipment, which line comprises at least first and second machines, the method comprising executing the following in a digital data processing device:
- a. supplying a population of strings;
- b. generating at least one simulated configuration based on the population, using a heuristic layout generator, which heuristic layout generator comprises:
- i. at least one first module for supplying a simulated allocation of parts between the first and second machines;
- ii. at least one second module for supplying a first simulated configuration of the first machine;
- and
- iii. at least one third module for supplying a second simulated configuration of the second machine;
- c. evaluating the at least one simulated configuration;
- d. supplying an evaluation result;
- e. applying a genetic algorithm to the population in response to the result;
- f. repeating steps c. through e. until the result reaches a criterion;
- g. supplying a configuration based on the population at the time the result reaches the criterion.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.