Coping with model variations on parallel u-shaped assembly line configurations

Abstract

U-shaped assembly lines have always been shown as the intelligent way of producing homogeneous products in large quantities. However; dynamism in product demands and growing interest in customized products force companies to adapt more flexible as well as efficient production systems. On the other hand, parallel lines are becoming quite popular as these lines provide extra efficiency with the opportunity of utilizing multi-line workstations. We apply the parallel line configuration idea to the U-shaped mixed-model assembly line system to have a more efficient as well as flexible production environment; for the first time in the literature. The proposed line system combines the advantages of U-shaped lines, parallel lines, and mixed-model lines. The new line configuration is characterized and defined in detail and the advantages of the proposed line system are explained through numerical examples.