Evaluation of the virtual cell layout through simulation and design of experiments with regard to queue time
by Joao Carlos E. Ferreira, Paulo Antonio Reaes
International Journal of Services Operations and Informatics (IJSOI), Vol. 5, No. 3, 2010

Abstract: Virtual cellular manufacturing combines the high production routing flexibility of the job shop layout with the efficiency in terms of set-up of traditional cells. However, since this is a relatively recent concept, the implementation of the virtual cell layout in industry is still almost inexistent, despite the significant potential that this layout can provide for manufacturing systems. Considering the above, this work seeks to evaluate, through simulation and design of experiments, the performance of job shop and traditional cell layouts in comparison with a virtual cell manufacturing system, identifying the conditions in which the application of the latter is advantageous. These layouts are evaluated through models with identical capacities and subject to the same demand, and whose production sequences are generated by priority rules. A significant number of factors, levels and replications are used seeking to delimit appropriately the range in which the virtual cells effectively lead to competitive advantages.

Online publication date: Tue, 06-Jul-2010

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