Optimal operator allocation decision for TFT-LCD inspection and packaging process

Thin Film Transistor Liquid Crystal Display (TFT-LCD) is the primary flat panel display (FPD) technology, which is quickly becoming pervasive in many applications. The finished product of a TFT-LCD display device is called "module". A module is subject to a final inspection and packaging (I/P) process before it is shipped to the customer. The I/P process is strategically important since it directly impacts upon both customer service and out-going quality level. This research proposes to optimize the I/P process operator allocation problem by mixed-integer programming formulations. A practical case study has been adopted for the empirical illustrations.