Fuzzy decision support system for manufacturing facilities layout planning

Manufacturing facility layout problem is an unstructured decision-making problem due to natural vagueness associated with the inputs to the models. Arbitrary numerical ratings are assigned for relationship chart to determine facility selection routine. This paper presents a distinct decision support system based on multifactor fuzzy inference system (FIS) for the development of facility layout with fixed pickup/drop-off points. The algorithm searches several candidate points with different orientation of incoming machine blocks in order to minimize flow cost, dead space and area required for the development of layout. The proposed methodology is coded in C+ language and implemented in a Pentium III, 550-MHz machine. The experimental results with a test problem are illustrated with encouraging result with its advanced soft computational effectiveness. (c) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.