Optimization of Semiconductor Equipment Installations

This project is a Linear Programming model for workforce optimization of a team that conducts installations of chip making equipment in the semiconductor industry using linear programming. This model looks at the required number of equipment installs in four regions. However, it is scalable to any number of regions. The model was built with an objective function that maximized profit for equipment installed in the regions subject to constraints for costs of travel, meals and lodging and visa/work permits. In addition to the maximum profit possible, the model also determines the optimal number of tool installs available per region. A scalable generic model was created to replicate the results of the initial model. Additional variables and constraints were added to the problem set in order to demonstrate scalability. The results indicate that the profit for installs can be maximized given the constraints of the problem. In addition, the model can be scaled to add more detail and constraints. More work can be done to add variables and constraints for different products (types of equipment), different customers, engineer qualifications and timing of the activity