Journals / Endüstri Mühendisliği / 2026 / Cilt: 37 Sayı: 2

A MULTI-OBJECTIVE OPTIMIZATION APPROACH FOR ERGONOMIC U-SHAPED MIXED-MODEL ASSEMBLY LINE BALANCING PROBLEM

ERGONOMİK U TİPİ KARMA MODELLİ MONTAJ HATTI DENGELEME PROBLEMİ İÇİN ÇOK AMAÇLI OPTİMİZASYON YAKLAŞIMI

Seçil Kulaç(BURSA TEKNİK ÜNİVERSİTESİ)0000-0003-3432-0099
Pages
435–466
Publication Date
2026-08-28
🏛️Bibliographic metadata and full text access for this article are provided via DergiPark.
DergiPark Record ↗
✨

AI Summary & Key Takeaways

AI Insight
⚡ TL;DR(Too Long; Didn't Read)

Computational results indicate an average reduction of 10.9% in cycle time for MOPSO relative to NSGA-II, particularly for medium- and large-scale instances.

📌 3 Key Takeaways

🎯
Objective & Hypothesis:A multi-objective ergonomic U-shaped mixed-model assembly line balancing problem is formulated by integrating operational efficiency and human-centered performance within a unified optimization framework.
📊
Key Findings & Data:Computational results indicate an average reduction of 10.9% in cycle time for MOPSO relative to NSGA-II, particularly for medium- and large-scale instances.
💡
Conclusion & Impact:The results suggest that the proposed framework provides an effective and scalable approach for simultaneously addressing productivity and ergonomic performance in complex assembly systems.
🔬Design:Modeling & Simulation
📍Scope:Comprehensive Sample
⚙️Variables:Montaj hattı dengeleme · U tipi montaj hattı · Karma modelli üretim

Abstract

A multi-objective ergonomic U-shaped mixed-model assembly line balancing problem is formulated by integrating operational efficiency and human-centered performance within a unified optimization framework. The model simultaneously minimizes cycle time, maximum ergonomic risk, and ergonomic class imbalance, enabling the joint evaluation of workload intensity and its distribution across stations. Ergonomic risk is quantified using the energy expenditure (EE) method, providing a continuous and decision-dependent assessment of physical workload. Two Pareto-based metaheuristic algorithms, Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) and Multi-objective Particle Swarm Optimization (MOPSO), are employed under a consistent solution representation and feasibility mechanism. Computational results indicate an average reduction of 10.9% in cycle time for MOPSO relative to NSGA-II, particularly for medium- and large-scale instances. In addition, MOPSO yields comparable ergonomic risk and class imbalance values, while producing a wider and more diverse Pareto front. Lower computational times are also observed, indicating improved solution efficiency. The results suggest that the proposed framework provides an effective and scalable approach for simultaneously addressing productivity and ergonomic performance in complex assembly systems.

Özet

Bu çalışma, operasyonel verimlilik ile insan odaklı performansı bütünleşik bir optimizasyon çerçevesi içerisinde entegre ederek, çok amaçlı ergonomik U tipi karma modelli montaj hattı dengeleme problemini ele almaktadır. Önerilen model, çevrim süresi, maksimum ergonomik risk ve ergonomik sınıf dengesizliğini eş zamanlı olarak minimize etmekte olup, iş yükü yoğunluğu ile bunun istasyonlar arasındaki dağılımının birlikte değerlendirilmesine olanak sağlamaktadır. Ergonomik risk, fiziksel iş yükünün sürekli ve karara bağlı bir değerlendirmesini sağlayan enerji harcaması (EE) yöntemi kullanılarak hesaplanmaktadır. Problemin çözümü için, Baskın Olmayan Sıralama Genetik Algoritması-II (NSGA-II) ve Çok amaçlı Parçacık Sürü Optimizasyonu (MOPSO) olmak üzere iki Pareto tabanlı meta-sezgisel algoritma, tutarlı bir çözüm temsili ve uygulanabilirlik mekanizması altında kullanılmaktadır. Hesaplama sonuçları, özellikle orta ve büyük ölçekli problemler için, MOPSO’nun NSGA-II’ye kıyasla çevrim süresinde ortalama %10,9 oranında azalma sağladığını göstermektedir. Ayrıca, MOPSO benzer düzeyde ergonomik risk ve sınıf dengesizliği değerleri üretirken, daha geniş ve daha çeşitli bir Pareto çözüm kümesi elde etmektedir. Daha düşük hesaplama süreleri gözlemlenmiş olup, bu durum çözüm verimliliğinin arttığını göstermektedir. Elde edilen bulgular, önerilen yaklaşımın karmaşık montaj sistemlerinde üretkenlik ile ergonomik performansın birlikte ele alınmasına yönelik etkili ve ölçeklenebilir bir yöntem sunduğunu göstermektedir.

🔖

Cite This Article

Kulaç, S. (2026). A MULTI-OBJECTIVE OPTIMIZATION APPROACH FOR ERGONOMIC U-SHAPED MIXED-MODEL ASSEMBLY LINE BALANCING PROBLEM. Endüstri Mühendisliği, Cilt: 37 Sayı: 2, 435–466. https://doi.org/10.46465/endustrimuhendisligi.1944966

📄 Full Text PDF Viewer

📄

PDF görüntüleyici hazırlanıyor...

References (39)

  1. Abdous, M. A., Delorme, X., Battini, D., Sgarbossa, F., & Berger-Douce, S. (2023). Assembly line balancing problem with ergonomics: A new fatigue and recovery model. International Journal of Production Research, 61(3), 693–706. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/00207543.2021.2015081
  2. Battini, D., Delorme, X., Dolgui, A., Persona, A., & Sgarbossa, F. (2016). Ergonomics in assembly line balancing based on energy expenditure: A multi-objective model. International Journal of Production Research, 54(3), 824–845. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/00207543.2015.1074299
  3. Bekdemir, P., & Taşan, S. Ö. (2024). Cost-based assembly line balancing and worker-cobot assignment problem under ergonomic constraints. Journal of the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture of Gazi University, 39(1), 461-472. Doi: https://doi.org/10.17341/gazimmfd.1182311
  4. Boysen, N., Fliedner, M., & Scholl, A. (2009). Sequencing mixed-model assembly lines: Survey, classification and model critique. European Journal of Operational Research, 192(2), 349–373. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejor.2007.09.013
  5. Boysen, N., Schulze, P., & Scholl, A. (2022). Assembly line balancing: What happened in the last fifteen years? European Journal of Operational Research, 301(3), 797–814. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejor.2021.11.043
  6. Cai, M., Wang, G., Luo, X., & Xu, X. (2025). Task allocation of human–robot collaborative assembly line considering assembly complexity and workload balance. International Journal of Production Research, 63(13), 4749–4775. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/00207543.2024.2442546
  7. Chutima, P., & Khotsaenlee, A. (2022). Multi-objective parallel adjacent U-shaped assembly line balancing collaborated by robots and normal and disabled workers. Computers & Operations Research, 143, 105775. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cor.2022.105775
  8. Coello Coello, C. A., Pulido, G. T., & Lechuga, M. S. (2004). Handling multiple objectives with particle swarm optimization. IEEE Transactions on Evolutionary Computation, 8(3), 256-279. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1109/TEVC.2004.826067
  9. Dalle Mura, M., & Dini, G. (2019). Optimizing ergonomics in assembly lines: A multi objective genetic algorithm. CIRP Journal of Manufacturing Science and Technology, 27, 31-45. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cirpj.2019.08.004
  10. Dalle Mura, M., & Dini, G. (2023). Improving ergonomics in mixed-model assembly lines balancing noise exposure and energy expenditure. CIRP Journal of Manufacturing Science and Technology, 40, 44-52. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cirpj.2022.11.005
  11. Deb, K., Pratap, A., Agarwal, S., & Meyarivan, T. (2002). A fast and elitist multiobjective genetic algorithm: NSGA-II. IEEE Transactions on Evolutionary Computation, 6(2), 182-197. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1109/4235.996017
  12. Ding, L. P., Feng, Y. X., Tan, J. R., & Gao, Y. C. (2010). A new multi-objective ant colony algorithm for solving the disassembly line balancing problem. International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, 48, 761–771. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00170-009-2303-5
  13. Farsi, A., Mokhtarzadeh, M., Rabbani, M., Manavizadeh, N., & Ghasempour Anaraki, M. (2024). Using parallel metaheuristics to solve a parallel U-shaped robotic mixed-model assembly line balancing and sequencing problem. Soft Computing, 28(21), 12603–12621. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00500-024-10311-2
  14. Gao, K. Z., He, Z. M., Huang, Y., Duan, P. Y., & Suganthan, P. N. (2020). A survey on meta-heuristics for solving disassembly line balancing, planning and scheduling problems in remanufacturing. Swarm and Evolutionary Computation, 57, 100719. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.swevo.2020.100719
  15. Ghorbani, E., Keivanpour, S., Sekkay, F., & Imbeau, D. (2023). Ergonomic assembly line balancing problems evolution and future trends with insights into Industry 5.0 paradigm (Report No. CIRRELT-2023-19). Retrieved from https://www.cirrelt.ca/documentstravail/cirrelt-2023-19.pdf
  16. Giridhar, M. P., & Panicker, V. V. (2024). Effect of ergonomic aspects on single- and multiproduct assembly-line balancing problems. Human Factors and Ergonomics in Manufacturing and Service Industries, 34, 491–515. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1002/hfm.21046
  17. Huang, Y., Sheng, B., Luo, R., Lu, Y., Fu, G., & Yin, X. (2024). Solving human-robot collaborative mixed-model two-sided assembly line balancing using multi-objective discrete artificial bee colony algorithm. Computers & Industrial Engineering, 187, 109776. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cie.2023.109776
  18. Hwang, R., & Katayama, H. (2009). A multi-decision genetic approach for workload balancing of mixed-model U-shaped assembly line systems. International Journal of Production Research, 47(14), 3797–3822. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/00207540701851772
  19. Jiao, Y., Cao, N., Li, J., Li, L., & Deng, X. (2022). Balancing a U-shaped assembly line with a heuristic algorithm based on a comprehensive rank value. Sustainability, 14(2), 775. Doi: https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020775
  20. Kalayci, C. B., Hancilar, A., Gungor, A., & Gupta, S. M. (2015). Multi-objective fuzzy disassembly line balancing using a hybrid discrete artificial bee colony algorithm. Journal of Manufacturing Systems, 37(3), 672-682. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmsy.2014.11.015
  21. Khorram, M., Eghtesadifard, M., & Niroomand, S. (2022). Hybrid meta-heuristic algorithms for U-shaped assembly line balancing problem with equipment and worker allocations. Soft Computing, 26, 2241–2258. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00500-021-06472-z
  22. Mokhtarzadeh, M., Rabbani, M., & Manavizadeh, N. (2021). A novel two-stage framework for reducing ergonomic risks of a mixed-model parallel U-shaped assembly-line. Applied Mathematical Modelling, 93, 597-617. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apm.2020.12.027
  23. Otto, A., & Battaïa, O. (2017). Reducing physical ergonomic risks at assembly lines by line balancing and job rotation: A survey. Computers & Industrial Engineering, 111, 467-480. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cie.2017.04.011
  24. Parizad, A., & Hatziadoniu, K. (2020). Security/stability-based Pareto optimal solution for distribution networks planning implementing NSGAII/FDMT. Energy, 192, 116644. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2019.116644
  25. Pınarbaşı, M. (2022). New mathematical and constraint programming models for U-type assembly line balancing problems with assignment restrictions. Engineering Optimization, 54(8), 1289–1304. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/0305215X.2021.1921171
  26. Rabbani, M., Mokhtarzadeh, M., Manavizadeh, N., & Farsi, A. (2021). Solving a bi-objective mixed-model assembly-line sequencing using metaheuristic algorithms considering ergonomic factors, customer behavior, and periodic maintenance. OPSEARCH, 58, 513–539. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12597-020-00489-y
  27. Rabbani, M., Mousavi, Z., & Farrokhi-Asl, H. (2016). Multi-objective metaheuristics for solving a type II robotic mixed-model assembly line balancing problem. Journal of Industrial and Production Engineering, 33(7), 472–484. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/21681015.2015.1126656
  28. Rabbani, M., Siadatian, R., Farrokhi-Asl, H., & Manavizadeh, N. (2016). Multi-objective optimization algorithms for mixed model assembly line balancing problem with parallel workstations. Cogent Engineering, 3(1). Doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/23311916.2016.1158903
  29. Rajkumar, M., Mahadevan, K., Kannan, S., & Baskar, S. (2014). NSGA-II technique for multi-objective generation dispatch of thermal generators with nonsmooth fuel cost functions. Journal of Electrical Engineering & Technology, 9(2), 423–432. Doi: https://doi.org/10.5370/JEET.2014.9.2.423
  30. Santana-Quintero, L. V., Ramírez, N., & Coello Coello, C. C. (2006). A multi-objective particle swarm optimizer hybridized with scatter search. In A. Gelbukh & C. A. Reyes-Garcia (Eds.), MICAI 2006: Advances in artificial intelligence (Lecture Notes in Computer Science, Vol. 4293, pp. 294–304). Berlin, Germany: Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/11925231_28
  31. Soysal-Kurt, H., İşleyen, S. K., & Gökçen, H. (2025). Balancing and sequencing of mixed-model parallel robotic assembly lines considering energy consumption. Flexible Services and Manufacturing Journal, 37(1), 38–66. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10696-024-09533-1
  32. Stecke, K. E., & Mokhtarzadeh, M. (2022). Balancing collaborative human–robot assembly lines to optimise cycle time and ergonomic risk. International Journal of Production Research, 60(1), 25–47. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/00207543.2021.1989077
  33. Wang, R. (2016). An improved nondominated sorting genetic algorithm for multiobjective problem. Mathematical Problems in Engineering, 2016. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/1519542
  34. Weckenborg, C., Thies, C., & Spengler, T. S. (2022). Harmonizing ergonomics and economics of assembly lines using collaborative robots and exoskeletons. Journal of Manufacturing Systems, 62, 681-702. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmsy.2022.02.005
  35. Xu, Z., Han, Y., Li, Z., Zou, Y., & Chen, Y. (2023). A new Pareto discrete NSGA-II algorithm for disassembly line balance problem. International Journal of Intelligent Systems, 2023(1), Article 8847164. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/8847164
  36. Yin, X., Yang, Y., Li, X., Wu, R., Guo, A., & Zhao, Q. (2025). Research on the balancing problem of human–robot collaborative assembly line in SMEs considering ergonomic risk and cost. Computers & Industrial Engineering, 204, 111091. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cie.2025.111091
  37. Yusoff, Y., Ngadiman, M. S., & Zain, A. M. (2011). Overview of NSGA-II for optimizing machining process parameters. Procedia Engineering, 15, 3978-3983. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.proeng.2011.08.745
  38. Zhang, Z., Tang, Q. H., Ruiz, R., & Zhang, L. (2020). Ergonomic risk and cycle time minimization for the U-shaped worker assignment assembly line balancing problem: A multi-objective approach. Computers & Operations Research, 118, 104905. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cor.2020.104905
  39. Zheng, C., Li, Z., Janardhanan, M., Zhang, Z., & Zhang, L. (2026). Improved swarm-based metaheuristics for optimizing human–robot collaborative assembly lines with multi-type collaborative robots. Flexible Services and Manufacturing Journal, 38, 1–63. Doi: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10696-024-09582-6