Machine Layout Problem in Flexible Manufacturing Systems

Abstract

This paper analyzes the machine layout problem in flexible manufacturing systems FMS's. We show that the quadratic assignment formulation cannot be used to model the machine layout problem. Four basic types of machine layouts that are frequently encountered in FMS's are presented. A measure to determine the relationship between machines is introduced. Since automated guided vehicles are commonly used to transport material between machines, their motion characteristic is discussed. Two new construction algorithms are presented to solve the machine layout problem in FMS's. They generate solutions with acceptable quality in low computational time. The triangle assignment algorithm TAA is compared to existing methods for 8 test problems and is found to give solutions of better quality than any other construction method published. When compared to existing methods, the computation time performance is attractive.