A New Approach for Solving Cell Formation Problem with Alternative Process Routings

In this paper, we deal with the cell formation problem in the presence of alternative process routings, in which more than one process route for each part can be selected. This problem is formulated as a mathematical programming model that optimally determines part families, machine cells and quantity of each part that will follow each process route. The objective is to minimize total intercellular movements and total machine workload imbalances, simultaneously. Also, some important factors namely production sequence, machine capacities, and processing time are considered in designing manufacturing cells. Due to the complexity of the problem, a genetic algorithm is proposed for solving the problem. Finally, a numerical example is solved and compared with the solution approach from the literature that selects only one route for each part. Thiscomparison shows that the proposed approach offers better solution.

Keywords:

Cell Formation , Alternative Process Routings , Genetic Algorithm