A Method for Generating Robust Schedule under Uncertainty in Processing Time(<Special Issue>TOTAL OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT)

Abstract

We examine a technique for solving the scheduling problem in the flexible flow shop, where the processing time is uncertain. The conventional scheduling method for the flexible flow shop is usually based on afirst-in-flrst-out rule at each stage. However, there is no guarantee that a good solution can be obtained by this method, especially because of the uncertain processing time. In the present study, we attempt to develop a scheduling method that provides a robust schedule against uncertainty in the processing time. In the present paper, we consider a procedure by which to generate robust schedules depending on the degree of uncertainly.