Production-Line Balances for Mixed-Model Lines

This paper considers the problem of mixed-model assembly-line balancing. First, the balance problem is formulated, and some of the difficulties of achieving effective balances in practice are noted. Next, balance procedures designed to obtain expeditious computer solutions of large-scale mixed-model balances are presented, and results obtained for a small-scale balance by a program incorporating these procedures are discussed. Effect on line performance is considered, and an estimate is made of the computer effort required to achieve a balance for a large-scale assembly operation. Finally some general conclusions are presented.