Quantum algorithms for process parallel flexible job shop scheduling

Abstract

Flexible Job Shop Scheduling is one of the most difficult optimization problems known. In addition, modern production planning and control strategies require continuous and process-parallel optimization of machine allocation and processing sequences. Therefore, this paper presents a new method for process parallel Flexible Job Shop Scheduling using the concept of quantum computing based optimization. A scientific benchmark and the application to a realistic use-case demonstrates the good performance and practicability of this new approach. A managerial insight shows how the approach for process parallel flexible job shop scheduling can be integrated in existing production planning and control IT-infrastructure.