Approximation algorithms for single-machine sequencing with delivery times and unit batch set-up times (Q1179195)

The author considers the problem of minimizing maximum delivery time on a single machine under the assumption that the set of \(n\) jobs is partitioned into batches and a unit set-up time is associated with every switching from a job in one batch to a job in another batch. The problem is known to be NP-hard [see \textit{J. Bruno} and \textit{P. Downey}, SIAM J. Computing 7, 393-403 (1978; Zbl 0386.68050)]. Here, three polynomial-time approximation algorithms are presented and their worst-case behavior is analyzed.