Title: Multi-attribute decision models for justification of cellular manufacturing systems

Authors: Rambabu Kodali, K.S. Sangwan

Addresses: Mechanical Engineering Group, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani 333031, India. ' Mechanical Engineering Group, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani 333031, India

Abstract: There is a general challenge offered to the field of engineering economics by the introduction of advanced manufacturing systems. Typically, the traditional approaches do not account for the significant intangible benefits offered by cellular manufacturing systems. In this paper, an attempt has been made to overcome the above-mentioned deficiencies by presenting two multi-attribute decision models – analytical hierarchy process and performance value analysis – for the justification of CMS. The usefulness of the proposed models is demonstrated through a case situation.

Keywords: cellular manufacturing systems; manufacturing cells; AHP; analytical hierarchy process; performance value analysis; PVA; GT; group technology; investment justification; engineering economics; AMT; AMS; advanced manufacturing systems; intangible benefits.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBPM.2004.005634

International Journal of Business Performance Management, 2004 Vol.6 No.3/4, pp.298 - 320

Published online: 08 Nov 2004 *

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