An improved ant colony optimization （ACO） algorithm is utilized in cell scheduling of the flexible manufaturing process for considering the instrument constraint, manufacturing cost and time. Firstly, the initial weighted directional diagram is set up. Secondly, the algorithm based on the dynamic pheromone updating ensures the quick convergence and the optimal solution, thus improving the feasibility and the stability of the schedule system. Aiming at reducing collaboration with external partners, decreasing the total cost and balancing the production process, the algorithm is efficient in supporting the management process of the manufacturing cell and in strengthening the information arrangement capabitity of the scheduling system. Finally, experimental results of the improved algorithm are compared with those of other algorithms.
