Genetic algorithm implementation on plant layout planning based on logic algorithm considering free side(s) and dimension ratio constraints

Abstract

Bad-arranged layout causes costs considerably higher than it should be. Plant layout is a combinatorial problem involving a number of departments which is to be placed so that the material transporting cost between those departments becomes minimum. The more the number of departments involved, the more difficult to do a manual counting, and cumbersome as well. Thus, a model is developed based on LOGIC, one of computer-aided layout methods. Nevertheless, the model has a certain procedure not owned by LOGIC that leads the searching to the optimal solution. And since free side(s) is important for particular departments, the model is developed to consider free side(s). Ratio of department's dimension is also taken into account as well, with the purpose of achieving layout having quite realistic dimensions. Both are taken into the calculation of each chromosome's fitness. The result obtained shows the insufficiency of model to fulfill ratio of department's dimension satisfactorily, while the free side(s) constraints have been satisfactorily met.