Multi-Objective Facility Layout Problem using Particle Swarm Optimization

摘要

Facility layout problems are intriguing combinatorial problems that involve determining the location and shape of various departments in a factory based upon inter-department volume and distance measures. Most of the solution methodologies used in the literature were mathematical approaches and heuristics. It is also found that these approaches have their own limitations, such as, size of the problem and computation time. The proposed solution methodology seeks to overcome these limitations. Metaheuristics are unique in nature and they were found to be successful in solving several multi-objective optimization problems, such as, machining and scheduling. In this article, the most popular technique particle swarm optimization has been employed and has been proved to be better in solving and benchmarked layout problems.