An integrated approach to facilities layout using expert systems

The paper develops an expert systems approach to define appropriate layouts of machining facilities under specific combinations of manufacturing and materials handling systems. The knowledge base incorporates six factors relating product variety and quantity, degrees of flexibility, level of automation, materials handling system, work-in-process and environmental considerations. The EXSYS system program has been used to manipulate the knowledge base. The program operates in tandem mode and interfaces with algorithms to optimize the selection of materials handling equipment, and generate appropriate layouts. Application of the program is illustrated for an existing facility.