A simple on-line batch sequencing algorithm

Sequencing and scheduling are forms of decision-making that play an essential role in manufacturing. This paper presents an algorithm capable of predicting the starting time for a single new batch on a system consisting of two chemical reactors sharing a common discharge vessel and simultaneously respecting no-wait and blocking constraints imposed by the nature of the technological process. The algorithm has been developed for the sequencing of two filters in a two-stage gel washing process.