Multi-Objective Optimization Model for Integrated Process Planning and Job Shop Scheduling Using Cuckoo Search

In manufacturing environment, unpredictable market changes results in modifications of part design and engineering specifications trigger frequent and costly fluctuations in process plans, setups, and machinery. Traditionally, process planning and scheduling were carried out in a sequential way. These approaches have become the obstacles to improve the productivity and responsiveness of the manufacturing system. Therefore, the integrated process planning and scheduling was introduced for significant improvements in manufacturing efficiency through eliminating or reducing scheduling conflicts. This paper presents Cuckoo Search (CS) based integrated process planning and scheduling which according to prescribed multi objectives such as minimizing process time, process cost, make span time and tardiness, could swiftly search for the optimal process plan and scheduling. The proposed methodology demonstrated with case study to validate its effectiveness and feasibility. It has proved from comparative study that the present method is flexible and robust.