Layout adjustment of cellular production line based on material logistic analysis

In cellular production line (CPL), inter-cell machining and transportation of “exception” parts may lead to equipment sharing, logistic, and process route inter-crossing. More attention paid to such special problems can greatly help solve cellular layout. Based on material logistic analysis, some key technologies orienting CPL layout are studied from the viewpoint of application: (1) material logistic patterns of CPL are modularized, (2) statistic of logistic flow rate on main transportation channels and between machines is presented, and (3) measures of layout adjustment including equipment adding, equipment substituting, equipment sharing, and cell adjustment under the general objective of minimizing logistic cost are analyzed. A numerical example is given, and guiding results for CPL layout are summarized.