Scheduling optimization of ship plane block flow line considering dual resource constraints

Abstract A well-designed scheduling plan that meets the practical constraints of the workshop is crucial for enhancing production efficiency in ship plane block assembly. Unlike traditional flow line scheduling problems, the scheduling optimization problem for ship plane block flow line involves dual resource constraints, including work teams and spare parts supply limitations. This can be seen as a Dual Resource Constrained Blocked Flow Shop Scheduling Problem (DRCBFSP). This paper presents a scheduling optimization method for this kind of problem to minimize the maximum completion time. To address the dual constraints, chromosomes are encoded as a two-dimensional array composed of positive integers representing the assembly order of blocks and the allocation of work teams. An improved Grey Wolf Optimization Algorithm (IGWO) is proposed to solve the problem, and the Rank Order Value (ROV) rule is used to transform the discrete scheduling solution with the continuous individual position vector. The IGWO algorithm also incorporates nonlinear search factors, dynamic inertia weight factors, and Gaussian mutation perturbation strategies to enhance its development and exploration capabilities. The experimental results suggest that the mathematical model and the IGWO algorithm established in this paper can effectively solve the DRCBFSP encountered in ship block building.