We consider the facility layout problem with machine capacities (and hence multiple machines of each type) and random demand. We develop a very efficient heuristic allowing us to find good solutions to the stochastic case whenever good solutions can be found for the corresponding deterministic problem with uncapacitated machines of the same dimension. Hence, this problem represents a case where...

This research proposes a vigorous methodology based on the fuzzy set theory to improve the facility layout process. Using natural language, the fuzzy set theory is an appropriate tool for controlling complex systems such as facility planning. The closeness rating between departments in a plant depends on qualitative and quantitative factors. Some of these factors may have a greater effect on th...

This research proposes a vigorous methodology based on the fuzzy set theory to improve the facility layout process. Using natural language, the fuzzy set theory is an appropriate tool for controlling complex systems such as facility planning. The closeness rating between departments in a plant depends on qualitative and quantitative factors. Some of these factors may have a greater effect on th...

introduction: the appropriate-use optimization of the limited spaces of the iranian hospitals is believed to be a crucial step towards promoting the efficiency of these healthcare centers. the issue determining the optimization patterns of the layout of units has led to a lot of efforts by researchers as it increases the efficiency of the hospitals through patients’ improvement, changing the lo...

The flexible manufacturing system (FMS) facility layout problem (FLP) involves the positioning of cells within a given area so as to minimize the material flow costs between cells. The FLP design includes specifying the spatial coordinates of each cell, the orientation of each cell in either a horizontal or vertical position, and the position of each cell’s pickup and dropoff points. The layout...

This paper develops a new mathematical model that integrates layout design and production planning to prescribe efficient multi-bay manufacturing facilities. The model addresses the need to distribute department replicas throughout the facility and extends the use of product and process requirements as problem parameters in order to increase process routing flexibility. In addition, the model a...

Purpose – In spite of having a number of general-purpose algorithms for solving plant layout problems, facility planners may still face a challenging task to adjust these algorithms to handle special, but not uncommon, layout problems. The purpose of this study is to propose a new method for addressing the impact of overhead space utilization on a plant layout solution. Design/methodology/appro...