A novel optimization method for modular facilities layout problem considering flexible processes

With the growth of personalized customer requirements, modular manufacturing system is commonly recognized as the key to response to diverse production requirement in mass customization. However, there is lack of research on the optimization problem for modular facilities layout planning. Thus, the aim of this paper is to develop a methodology for the reconfigurable modular facilities layout problem with alternative process routings and an integrated mathematical model is proposed to improve production flexibility and minimize material handling costs. An improved heuristic algorithm is developed and numerical examples are carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the methods.