Title: A model of optimal manpower allocation for chiphandling in manufacturing

Authors: Long-Jyi Yeh, Tian-Syung Lan, Gaung-Jer Lay

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tatung University, 40 Chungshan N. Rd., 3rd Sec., Taipei, Taiwan 104, ROC. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tatung University, 40 Chungshan N. Rd., 3rd Sec., Taipei, Taiwan 104, ROC. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, Tatung University, 40 Chungshan N. Rd., 3rd Sec., Taipei, Taiwan 104, ROC

Abstract: The optimal workforce assignment for chip handling in computer-based manufacturing has been rebellious and crucial to industrial management. However, through the OMP, Optimal Manpower, model proposed in this paper, this issue becomes realistically and concretely solvable. This study not only meditates the conception of balancing machine productivity and human ability into the objective, but also develops the step-by-step algorithm for optimising the combinatorial problem to accomplish maximum profit. In addition, to extend the applicability of OMP model, the computerised decision tool written in Visual Basic is comprehensively prepared in approaching the optimal solution of manpower allocation efficiently. Moreover, the versatility of OMP model is exemplified through a numerical study. This paper definitely contributes the applicable scheme of manpower allocation for chip handling in manufacturing, and provides the valuable tool to conclusively optimise the profit of a machining project for operations research in today|s machining industry with profound insight.

Keywords: manpower allocation; chip handling; parallel machines; production quantity; just-in-time; JIT; operations research; workforce assignment; automated manufacturing; machine productivity; skills.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCAT.2005.007205

International Journal of Computer Applications in Technology, 2005 Vol.24 No.1, pp.49 - 54

Published online: 23 Jun 2005 *

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