Hybrid Differential Evolution and Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm for the Sugarcane Cultivation Scheduling Problem

Abstract

This paper focuses on optimizing scheduling solutions for the flexible flow shop problem, with tooling constraints and machine eligibility, to minimize makespan for cultivating sugarcane. Normally, preparing the soil for planting sugarcane requires six steps: 1) 7 power harrow and rototiller, 2) rotary mini combine, 3) 22/24 disc harrow, 4) rotary mini combine, 5) sugarcane plantation, and 6) sugarcane sprayer. Each of these steps requires a variety of tools. With limited availability of tools and equipment, resource allocation is important. The objective of this research was to minimize the makespan. For optimal convergence, meta-heuristics, such as a Differential Evolution algorithm, a Particle Swarm optimization algorithm, and a Hybrid DEPSO algorithm were developed to solve the problem. Experimental results showed that all three methods efficiently solved flexible flow shop problems.