A Weighted Flow-Distance Measure for Machine Layout Design

For at least forty years, researchers have investigated, expounded and created solutions to the problems associated with layout design. From the formative contributions of Muther, Hillier, Singleton, Noy and Buffa, through the computer-based departmental assignment packages of Lee and Moore, Buffa et al. and Seehof and Evans to the many researchers who have addressed the machine–component incidence matrix (MCIM) problem, there has been a need to generate and employ measures which quantify the information inputs, so that the system under investigation can then be effectively designed.

This paper examines some of the measures that have been devised, and suggests a measure which addresses the problem of including in-sequence and bypass process route and component volume data in the input. The output from which can then be used to create solutions to the machine layout design problem.