Multi-Objective Optimization of Multi-Product Parallel Disassembly Line Balancing Problem Considering Multi-Skilled Workers Using a Discrete Chemical Reaction Optimization Algorithm

This work investigates a multi-product parallel disassembly line balancing problem considering multi-skilled workers.A mathematical model for the parallel disassembly line is established to achieve maximized disassembly profit and minimized workstation cycle time.Based on a product’s AND/OR graph,matrices for task-skill,worker-skill,precedence relationships,and disassembly correlations are developed.A multi-objective discrete chemical reaction optimization algorithm is designed.To enhance solution diversity,improvements are made to four reactions:decomposition,synthesis,intermolecular ineffective collision,and wall invalid collision reaction,completing the evolution of molecular individuals.The established model and improved algorithm are applied to ball pen,flashlight,washing machine,and radio combinations,respectively.Introducing a Collaborative Resource Allocation(CRA)strategy based on a Decomposition-Based Multi-Objective Evolutionary Algorithm,the experimental results are compared with four classical algorithms:MOEA/D,MOEAD-CRA,Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm Ⅱ(NSGA-Ⅱ),and Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm Ⅲ(NSGA-Ⅲ).This validates the feasibility and superiority of the proposed algorithm in parallel disassembly production lines.

Load Balancing-Based Routing Optimization Mechanism for Power Communication Networks

In power communication networks, it is a challenge to decrease the risk of different services efficiently to improve operation reliability. One of the important factor in reflecting communication risk is service route distribution. However, existing routing algorithms do not take into account the degree of importance of services, thereby leading to load unbalancing and increasing the risks of services and networks. A routing optimization mechanism based on load balancing for power communication networks is proposed to address the abovementioned problems. First, the mechanism constructs an evaluation model to evaluate the service and network risk degree using combination of devices, service load, and service characteristics. Second, service weights are determined with modified relative entropy TOPSIS method, and a balanced service routing determination algorithm is proposed. Results of simulations on practical network topology show that the mechanism can optimize the network risk degree and load balancing degree efficiently.

Effective Hybrid Teaching-learning-based Optimization Algorithm for Balancing Two-sided Assembly Lines with Multiple Constraints

Due to the NP-hardness of the two-sided assembly line balancing （TALB） problem, multiple constraints existing in real applications are less studied, especially when one task is involved with several constraints. In this paper, an effective hybrid algorithm is proposed to address the TALB problem with multiple constraints （TALB-MC）. Considering the discrete attribute of TALB-MC and the continuous attribute of the standard teaching-learning-based optimization （TLBO） algorithm, the random-keys method is hired in task permutation representation, for the purpose of bridging the gap between them. Subsequently, a special mechanism for handling multiple constraints is developed. In the mechanism, the directions constraint of each task is ensured by the direction check and adjustment. The zoning constraints and the synchronism constraints are satisfied by teasing out the hidden correlations among constraints. The positional constraint is allowed to be violated to some extent in decoding and punished in cost fimction. Finally, with the TLBO seeking for the global optimum, the variable neighborhood search （VNS） is further hybridized to extend the local search space. The experimental results show that the proposed hybrid algorithm outperforms the late acceptance hill-climbing algorithm （LAHC） for TALB-MC in most cases, especially for large-size problems with multiple constraints, and demonstrates well balance between the exploration and the exploitation. This research proposes an effective and efficient algorithm for solving TALB-MC problem by hybridizing the TLBO and VNS.

Optimization of assembly line balancing using genetic algorithm

In a manufacturing industry, mixed model assembly line(MMAL) is preferred in order to meet the variety in product demand. MMAL balancing helps in assembling products with similar characteristics in a random fashion. The objective of this work aims in reducing the number of workstations, work load index between stations and within each station. As manual contribution of workers in final assembly line is more, ergonomics is taken as an additional objective function. Ergonomic risk level of a workstation is evaluated using a parameter called accumulated risk posture(ARP), which is calculated using rapid upper limb assessment(RULA) check sheet. This work is based on the case study of an MMAL problem in Rane(Madras) Ltd.(India), in which a problem based genetic algorithm(GA) has been proposed to minimize the mentioned objectives. The working of the genetic operators such as selection, crossover and mutation has been modified with respect to the addressed MMAL problem. The results show that there is a significant impact over productivity and the process time of the final assembled product, i.e., the rate of production is increased by 39.5% and the assembly time for one particular model is reduced to 13 min from existing 18 min. Also, the space required using the proposed assembly line is only 200 m2 against existing 350 m2. Further, the algorithm helps in reducing workers fatigue(i.e., ergonomic friendly).

An efficient migrating birds optimization algorithm with idle time reduction for Type-I multi-manned assembly line balancing problem

Multi-manned assembly line,which is broadly utilized to assemble high volume products such as automobiles and trucks,allows a group of workers to assemble different tasks simultaneously in a multi-manned workstation.This additional characteristic of parallel operators increases the complexity of the traditional NP-hard assembly line balancing problem.Hence,this paper formulates the Type-I multi-manned assembly line balancing problem to minimize the total number of workstations and operators,and develops an efficient migrating birds optimization algorithm embedded into an idle time reduction method.In this algorithm,a new decoding mechanism is proposed which reduces the sequence-dependent idle time by some task assignment rules;three effective neighborhoods are developed to make refinement of existing solutions in the bird improvement phases;and temperature acceptance and competitive mechanism are employed to avoid being trapped in the local optimum.Comparison experiments suggest that the new decoding and improvements are effective and the proposed algorithm outperforms the compared algorithms.

Risk-Balanced Routing Strategy for Service Function Chains of Cyber-Physical Power System Considering Cross-Space Cascading Failure

Cyber-physical power system(CPPS)has significantly improved the operational efficiency of power systems.However,cross-space cascading failures may occur due to the coupling characteristics,which poses a great threat to the safety and reliability of CPPS,and there is an acute need to reduce the probability of these failures.Towards this end,this paper first proposes a cascading failure index to identify and quantify the importance of different information in the same class of communication services.On this basis,a joint improved risk-balanced service function chain routing strategy(SFC-RS)is proposed,which is modeled as a robust optimization problem and solved by column-and-constraint generation(C-CG)algorithm.Compared with the traditional shortest-path routing algorithm,the superiority of SFC-RS is verified in the IEEE 30-bus system.The results demonstrate that SFC-RS effectively mitigates the risk associated with information transmission in the network,enhances information transmission accessibility,and effectively limits communication disruption from becoming the cause of cross-space cascading failures.

Hybrid Hierarchical Particle Swarm Optimization with Evolutionary Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm for Task Scheduling in Cloud Computing

Task scheduling plays a key role in effectively managing and allocating computing resources to meet various computing tasks in a cloud computing environment.Short execution time and low load imbalance may be the challenges for some algorithms in resource scheduling scenarios.In this work,the Hierarchical Particle Swarm Optimization-Evolutionary Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm(HPSO-EABC)has been proposed,which hybrids our presented Evolutionary Artificial Bee Colony(EABC),and Hierarchical Particle Swarm Optimization(HPSO)algorithm.The HPSO-EABC algorithm incorporates both the advantages of the HPSO and the EABC algorithm.Comprehensive testing including evaluations of algorithm convergence speed,resource execution time,load balancing,and operational costs has been done.The results indicate that the EABC algorithm exhibits greater parallelism compared to the Artificial Bee Colony algorithm.Compared with the Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm,the HPSO algorithmnot only improves the global search capability but also effectively mitigates getting stuck in local optima.As a result,the hybrid HPSO-EABC algorithm demonstrates significant improvements in terms of stability and convergence speed.Moreover,it exhibits enhanced resource scheduling performance in both homogeneous and heterogeneous environments,effectively reducing execution time and cost,which also is verified by the ablation experimental.

Optimization of Line Configuration and Balancing for Flexible Machining Lines

Line configuration and balancing is to select the type of line and allot a given set of operations as well as machines to a sequence of workstations to realize high-efficiency production. Most of the current researches for machining line configuration and balancing problems are related to dedicated transfer lines with dedicated machine workstations. With growing trends towards great product variety and fluctuations in market demand, dedicated transfer lines are being replaced with flexible machining line composed of identical CNC machines. This paper deals with the line configuration and balancing problem for flexible machining lines. The objective is to assign operations to workstations and find the sequence of execution, specify the number of machines in each workstation while minimizing the line cycle time and total number of machines. This problem is subject to precedence, clustering, accessibility and capacity constraints among the features, operations, setups and workstations. The mathematical model and heuristic algorithm based on feature group strategy and polychromatic sets theory are presented to find an optimal solution. The feature group strategy and polychromatic sets theory are used to establish constraint model. A heuristic operations sequencing and assignment algorithm is given. An industrial case study is carried out, and multiple optimal solutions in different line configurations are obtained. The case studying results show that the solutions with shorter cycle time and higher line balancing rate demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. This research proposes a heuristic line configuration and balancing algorithm based on feature group strategy and polychromatic sets theory which is able to provide better solutions while achieving an improvement in computing time.

Improved Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm with Multi-Strategy Fusion Mechanism and Its Application in Engineering Design

This article addresses the issues of falling into local optima and insufficient exploration capability in the Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm (AOA), proposing an improved Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm with a multi-strategy mechanism (BSFAOA). This algorithm introduces three strategies within the standard AOA framework: an adaptive balance factor SMOA based on sine functions, a search strategy combining Spiral Search and Brownian Motion, and a hybrid perturbation strategy based on Whale Fall Mechanism and Polynomial Differential Learning. The BSFAOA algorithm is analyzed in depth on the well-known 23 benchmark functions, CEC2019 test functions, and four real optimization problems. The experimental results demonstrate that the BSFAOA algorithm can better balance the exploration and exploitation capabilities, significantly enhancing the stability, convergence mode, and search efficiency of the AOA algorithm.

Optimal Design of Deforming Regulation for Compact Continuous Rolling Mill with Balanced Load

If the draught of each mill stand is limited by forced bite condition for compact continuous mill,the rolling load difference between one mill stand and another is very big.If deforming regulation of relative load for each mill stand is approximate to the same,the productive capacity of compact continuous mill can be brought into full play,and also the safety running and the smooth rolling of mill can be ensured.

Optimization Analysis of Correction Tape Box Compounding Cavity Runner Balance Based on Moldflow

Aiming at the problem of runner unbalance in the compounding cavity of the upper and lower cover of the correction tape box, the plastic injection analysis software Moldflow was used to optimize runner balance. First, the 3D modeling software Proe was used to establish the geometric model of the upper and lower cover of the correction tape box, and introduced into the plastic injection analysis software Moldflow. Secondly, the upper and the lower cover of the correction tape box were meshed and the initial gating system was designed in Moldflow. Filling analysis of the initial scheme of the correction tape box combined cavity showed that the runner of the melt was not balanced in the mold cavity. Finally, the runner balance optimization analysis of the cavities was carried out. Through optimization, the time unbalance rate of the melt in the mold cavity decreased from 28.6% to 0.7%, the pressure unbalance rate decreased from 42.0% to 4.2%, and the pressure distribution in the cavity was more uniform in the whole injection process.

Optimization of Energy Resource Management for Assembly Line Balancing Using Adaptive Current Search

This paper aimed to present the optimization of energy resource management in a car factory by the adaptive current search (ACS)—one of the most efficient metaheuristic optimization search techniques. Assembly lines of a specific car factory considered as a case study are balanced by the ACS to optimize their energy resource management. The workload variance of the line is performed as the objective function to be minimized in order to increase the productivity. In this work, the ACS is used to address the number of tasks assigned for each workstation, while the sequence of tasks is assigned by factory. Three real-world assembly line balancing (ALB) problems from a specific car factory are tested. Results obtained by the ACS are compared with those obtained by the genetic algorithm (GA), tabu search (TS) and current search (CS). As results, the ACS outperforms other algorithms. By using the ACS, the productivity can be increased and the energy consumption of the lines can be decreased significantly.

Optimal Load Balancing Leveling Method for Multi-leg Flexible Platforms

The working platforms supported with multiple extensible legs must be leveled before they come into operation.Although the supporting stiffness and reliability of the platform are improved with the increasing number of the supporting legs,the increased overdetermination of the multi-leg platform systems leads to leveling coupling problem among legs and virtual leg problem in which some of the supporting legs bear zero or quasi zero loads.These problems make it quite complex and time consuming to level such a multi-leg platform.Based on rigid body kinematics,an approximate equation is formulated to rapidly calculate the leg extension for leveling a rigid platform,then a proportional speed control strategy is proposed to reduce the unexpected platform distortion and leveling coupling between supporting legs.Taking both the load coupling between supporting legs and the elastic flexibility of the working platform into consideration,an optimal balancing legs’ loads(OBLL) model is firstly put forward to deal with the traditional virtual leg problem.By taking advantage of the concept of supporting stiffness matrix,a coupling extension method(CEM) is developed to solve this OBLL problem for multi-leg flexible platform.At the end,with the concept of supporting stiffness matrix and static transmissibility matrix,an optimal load balancing leveling method is proposed to achieve geometric leveling and legs’ loads balancing simultaneously.Three numerical examples are given out to illustrate the performance of proposed methods.This paper proposes a method which can effectively quantify all of the legs’ extension at the same time,achieve geometric leveling and legs’ loads balancing simultaneously.By using the proposed methods,the stability,precision and efficiency of auto-leveling control process can be improved.

Batch-to-batch Optimization of Batch Crystallization Processes

It is the fact that several process parameters are either unknown or uncertain. Therefore, an optimal control, profile calculated with developed process models with respect to such process parameters may not give an optimal performance when implemented to real processes. This study proposes a batch-to-batch optimization strategy for the estimation of uncertain kinetic.par.ameters in a batch crystallization process of potassium sulfate production. The knowledge of a crystal size distribution of the product at the end of batch operation is used in the proposed methodology. The updated kinetic parameters are applied for determining an optimal operating temperature policy for the next batch run.

A New Clustering Algorithm Using Adaptive Discrete Particle Swarm Optimization in Wireless Sensor Network

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are mainly characterized by their limited and non-replenishable energy supply. Hence, the energy efficiency of the infrastructure greatly affects the network lifetime. Clustering is one of the methods that can expand the lifespan of the whole network by grouping the sensor nodes according to some criteria and choosing the appropriate cluster heads(CHs). The balanced load of the CHs has an important effect on the energy consumption balancing and lifespan of the whole network. Therefore, a new CHs election method is proposed using an adaptive discrete particle swarm optimization (ADPSO) algorithm with a fitness value function considering the load balancing and energy consumption. Simulation results not only demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can have better performance in load balancing than low-energy adaptive clustering hierarchy (LEACH), hybrid energy-efficient distributed clustering (HEED), and dynamic clustering algorithm with balanced load (DCBL), but also imply that the proposed algorithm can extend the network lifetime more.

Node deployment strategy optimization for wireless sensor network with mobile base station

The optimization of network performance in a movement-assisted data gathering scheme was studied by analyzing the energy consumption of wireless sensor network with node uniform distribution. A theoretically analytical method for avoiding energy hole was proposed. It is proved that if the densities of sensor nodes working at the same time are alternate between dormancy and work with non-uniform node distribution. The efficiency of network can increase by several times and the residual energy of network is nearly zero when the network lifetime ends.

Optimal arrangement for pressure measurement points in working chamber of earth pressure balance shield

In order to exactly provide scientific basis for pressure dynamic balance control of working chamber of earth pressure balance shield (EPBS),study on optimal arrangement of pressure measurement points in working chamber was conducted. Based on mathematical description of optimal arrangement for pressure measurement points,fuzzy clustering analysis and discriminant analysis were used to divide pressure regions of nodes on bulkhead. Finally,the selection method of optimal measurement points was proposed,and by selecting d6.28 m EPBS as study object,the case study was conducted. By contrast,based on optimal arrangement scheme of pressure measurement points,through adopting weighted algorithm,the absolute error mean of equivalent pressure of working chamber is the smallest. In addition,pressure curve of optimal arrangement points presents parabola,and it can show the state of pressure distribution on bulkhead truly. It is concluded that the optimal arrangement method of pressure measurement points in working chamber is effective and feasible,and the method can provide basis for realizing high precision pressure control of EPBS.

Iterative Methods for Solving the Nonlinear Balance Equation with Optimal Truncation

Two types of existing iterative methods for solving the nonlinear balance equation(NBE)are revisited.In the first type,the NBE is rearranged into a linearized equation for a presumably small correction to the initial guess or the subsequent updated solution.In the second type,the NBE is rearranged into a quadratic form of the absolute vorticity with the positive root of this quadratic form used in the form of a Poisson equation to solve NBE iteratively.The two methods are rederived by expanding the solution asymptotically upon a small Rossby number,and a criterion for optimally truncating the asymptotic expansion is proposed to obtain the super-asymptotic approximation of the solution.For each rederived method,two iterative procedures are designed using the integral-form Poisson solver versus the over-relaxation scheme to solve the boundary value problem in each iteration.Upon testing with analytically formulated wavering jet flows on the synoptic,sub-synoptic and meso-αscales,the iterative procedure designed for the first method with the Poisson solver,named M1a,is found to be the most accurate and efficient.For the synoptic wavering jet flow in which the NBE is entirely elliptic,M1a is extremely accurate.For the sub-synoptic wavering jet flow in which the NBE is mostly elliptic,M1a is sufficiently accurate.For the meso-αwavering jet flow in which the NBE is partially hyperbolic so its boundary value problem becomes seriously ill-posed,M1a can effectively reduce the solution error for the cyclonically curved part of the wavering jet flow,but not for the anti-cyclonically curved part.

Application of Optimal-Jerk Trajectory Planning in Gait-balance Training Robot

To accommodate the gait and balance disorder of the elderly with age progression and the occurrence of various senile diseases,this paper proposes a novel gait balance training robot(G-Balance)based on a six degree-of-freedom parallel platform.Using the platform movement and IMU wearable sensors,two training modes,i.e.,active and passive,are developed to achieve vestibular stimulation.Virtual reality technology is applied to achieve visual stimulation.In the active training mode,the elderly actively exercises to control the posture change of the platform and the switching of the virtual scene.In the passive training mode,the platform movement is combined with the virtual scene to simulate bumpy environments,such as earthquakes,to enhance the human anti-interference ability.To achieve a smooth switching of the scene,continuous speed and acceleration of the platform motion are required in some scenarios,in which a trajectory planning algorithm is applied.This paper describes the application of the trajectory planning algorithm in the balance training mode and the optimization of jerk(differential of acceleration)based on cubic spline planning,which can reduce impact on the joint and enhance stability.

Breakage and separation mechanism of ZGM coal mill based on parameters optimization model

Sampling ports were firstly drilled on a ZGM95 coal mill in the power plant in China, and the coal samples from various points in the pulverizer were collected under the different operation conditions. The prop- erty of the sampling material from the mill was analyzed, applying the float-sink test, size distribution analysis, proximate analysis and so on. It was indicated that the ＋250 I^m fraction in the pulverized fuel accounted for only 0.02%, while it was 83.2% in the new feed. The circulating ratio and coal flow in the separator and the cone zone were calculated using the mass balance of the circulating load. So, the cir- culating ratio in the separator of the pulverizer was between 8 and 13, and the circulating ratio, the feed flow of separator and cone zone all raised with the increase of the air volume. Furthermore, the parameters of the separation functions were obtained based on the fitting method. It was shown that the mean value of the shape factor B was 0.7617, and the parameter D which is the particle size at 50% cumulative yield in the separator almost kept unchanged.