Tuppas Software Corporation Works on AI for Production Scheduling

Dec. 18, 2008 - PRLog -- Maumee, Ohio – Tuppas Software just completed a Production Scheduling system for Bellevue Manufacturing Inc. which incorporates Artificial Intelligence to optimize their schedule. The system was tailored for Bellevue’s needs which included a desire to automate portions of the schedule. In order to reduce unnecessary changeovers (meaning to run like products together) and time secondary operations concisely, the software required a genetic algorithm.

Tuppas writes genetic algorithms into their scheduling systems when advanced planning functionality is requested. A genetic algorithm is a form of AI that contains two parts. The first part mixes up the schedule into different arrangements. The program generates thousands of possible configurations per second, giving it an edge over a human scheduler. The second part evaluates the different configurations and attaches a value to each. In most cases (depending on how the software is written), a high value is desired, while a low value is unfavorable.

The AI then evaluates the top scoring schedules to determine which to run. It offers the optimal schedule based on the goal it is programmed to assess. Once the schedule is displayed to the user, they can manipulate the schedule as desired.

AI is not a replacement for a human scheduler, but it can be a priceless aid when written correctly. The key to the success of any AI is that it must be written for a specific situation to work properly. Tuppas has had success with AI because Tuppas configures all of their software to meet each of their client’s needs.

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Tuppas Software has been in business since 1987. Tuppas is one of only a few companies that writes genetic algorithms for practical purposes. Tuppas tailors software based on their clients needs, due to their flexibility, Tuppas works for a wide spectrum of industries. The company offers a variety of software modules including: Production Scheduling, Employee Scheduling, Advanced Planning, Inventory, Warehouse Management, Employee Training and Testing, OEE (Overall Equiment Efficiency), Downtime Tracking, Production Reporting, Efficiency Tracking, Defect Tracking, SQC (Statistical Quality Control), TQM (Total Quality Management), Preventative Maintenance, CMMS, Accounting. You can contact Ronna Hampton at (877)897-7902 or support@Tuppas.com or visit www.Tuppas.com for more information. Tuppas is a privately owned company.