Optimisation of facility layout design problem with safety and environmental factors by stochastic DEA and simulation approach

Abstract

This article presents an integrated computer simulation–stochastic data envelopment analysis (SDEA) approach to deal with the job shop facility layout design problem (JSFLD) with stochastic outputs and safety and environmental factors. Stochastic outputs are defined as non-crisp operational and deterministic inputs. At first, feasible layout alternatives are generated under expert decision. Then, computer simulation network is used for performance modelling of each layout design. The outputs of simulation are average time-in-system, average queue length and average machine utilisation. Finally, SDEA is used with Lingo software for finding the optimum layout alternative amongst all feasible generated alternatives with respect to stochastic, safety and environmental indicators. The integrated approach of this study was more precise and efficient than previous studies with the stated outputs. The results have been verified and validated by principal component analysis. The unique features of this study are the ability of dealing with multiple inputs (including safety) and stochastic (including environmental) outputs. It also uses mathematical programming for optimum layout alternatives. Moreover, it is a practical tool and may be applied in real cases by considering safety and environmental aspects of the manufacturing process within JSFLD problems.

Keywords:

• job shop facility layout design (JSFLD)
• job shop
• simulation
• stochastic data envelopment analysis (SDEA)

Acknowledgements

The authors are grateful for the valuable comments and suggestions by the respected reviewers, which have enhanced the strength and significance of this work. This study was supported by a grant from the Iran National Science Foundation [grant number 93010029]. The authors are grateful for the financial support provided by the Iran National Science Foundation.