Method for optimizing a line of pick and place machines

1. Field of the Invention A genetic algorithm is used to balance a line of pick and place machines. The genetic algorithm uses a modularized chromosome string having at least three parts indicating ) a division of parts between the pick and place machines, ) a layout of a first pick and place machine, and ) a layout of a second pick and place machine, respectively. A heuristic layout generator cycles with the genetic algorithm to create simulated layouts from populations of chromosome strings produced by the genetic algorithm. The heuristic layout generator is also modularized, having separate modules corresponding to the three parts of the chromosome string.