INLAPS : an integrated layout planning system : some algorithms for the FLP using quadratic programming and statistical analysis

Sankar, Vijay (1986) INLAPS : an integrated layout planning system : some algorithms for the FLP using quadratic programming and statistical analysis. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

[English] PDF (Migrated (PDF/A Conversion) from original format: (application/pdf)) - Accepted Version Available under License - The author retains copyright ownership and moral rights in this thesis. Neither the thesis nor substantial extracts from it may be printed or otherwise reproduced without the author's permission. Download (26MB) [English] PDF - Accepted Version Available under License - The author retains copyright ownership and moral rights in this thesis. Neither the thesis nor substantial extracts from it may be printed or otherwise reproduced without the author's permission. (Original Version)

Abstract

This thesis is concerned with the solution of a Facilities Layout Problem using mathematical programming techniques, heuristics, applied statistics, and specialized algorithms peculiar to operations research and computer science. The core of an expert system has been developed that can generate sub-optimal solutions for the FLP using a micro or mini-computer. A knowledge base consisting of a construction algorithm, an improvement algorithm, a minimax algorithm, equipment selection and material handling optimization algorithms, simple and multiple line balancing algorithms etc., has been developed. Heuristic rules have been used for development of all the above mentioned algorithms except the minimax and material handling optimization routines. The Minimax algorithm was based on the solution of a generalized Steiner-Weber problem and the material handling optimization was achieved using a generalized n-dimensional knapsack problem model. -- A decision support system that quantifies the parameters of a production layout and decides whether a layout has to be changed at a given time period has been developed using the principles of statistical quality control theory and decision analysis. The algorithm utilizes data from the other programs mentioned above and for a given time span of operations and the relevant costs, gives the alternatives to the decision maker or calculates whether the layout change is a profitable one. This can be considered to be the inference engine of the expert system. A set of utilities that calculate the various parameters have also been developed. They include a stepwise and multiple regression algorithm, time series analysis, linear programming using simplex method and a random access data base. -- The whole system has been developed to be tightly integrated in the sense that data from the output of one algorithm can be used in the rest. For this purpose, INLAPS (Integrated Layout Planning System) has a modular structure with six shells, namely LAYOUT, MATERIAL, BALANCE, DECISION, UTILITIES and HELP for facilities layout, material handling optimization, line balancing, the decision support system, various utilities and help, respectively. Each of these shells have various modules that carry out their respective functions. All the programs are menu-driven with a detailed help facility.

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