A Bi-level Genetic Algorithm for Multi-objective Scheduling of Multi- and Mixed-Model Apparel Assembly Lines

In this paper, a multi-objective scheduling problem of the multi- and mixed-model apparel assembly line (MMAAL) is investigated. A bi-level genetic algorithm is developed to solve the scheduling problem, in which a new chromosome representation is proposed to represent the flexible operation assignment including assigning one operation to multiple workstations as well as assigning multiple operations to one workstation. The proposed algorithm is validated using real-world production data and the experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can solve the proposed scheduling problem effectively.