A genetic algorithm approach for unequal area dynamic facility layout problem

Facility layout problems, although difficult to solve, problem's outputs are important in terms of production processes and profitability of enterprises. In addition to factors such as raw materials, energy, labor; transportation costs because of plant layout also affect the unit cost. In recent years, due to the competitive effect experienced in the production sectors, it has become important to respond to customer demands in a timely, and inexpensive manner. Therefore, the facilities must adapt quickly to any changes as product, process, production technology, labor and management systems. The plant layout needs to be planned dynamically, taking into consideration these changes and change periods. These problems are difficult enough to solve even in the absence of dynamics, it becomes more difficult when the dimension of dynamism enters. To solve these difficult problems, meta-heuristic methods are used which give close to optimum results. In this study, genetic algorithms, which are known to give good results for facility layout problems, are used. The facility layout of workstations with unequal area in a department has been re-planned on a fixed layout. A problem specific program was prepared by using C #. The facility layout plan suggestion was obtained and the current situation was compared with the situation after improvement. It is seen that 39% cost improvement is achieved.