A Decision Support System for Assembly Line Balancing Problem Based on Fruit Fly Algorithm

In order to achieve the optimal balance for the assembly line balancing problem of type I (ALBP-I), a mathematical model with the objective of minimum workstations was established. According to the characteristics of this kind of problem, the model was solved by using the improved fruit fly optimization algorithm that is based on the weighted code. Then, a practical case of air conditioner assembly line was solved, and the results revealed that the number of workstations was obviously decreased and the balancing rate of the line obviously improved. Based on these, a decision support software system for ALBP-I based on fruit fly algorithm was developed, which could quickly calculate the minimum number of workstations and the job distribution. The system provided a convenient operation tool and decision support for assembly line balancing production.