Hybrid approach of discrete event simulation integrated with location search algorithm in a cells assignment problem: a case study

摘要: This paper presents a case study describing cell assignment problem in an assembly facility. These cells receive parts from external suppliers, and sort sequence these to feed the final line. Therefore, each are associated important inbound outbound flows generating hundreds of material handling equipment movements along facility, impacting traffic density causing eventually safety issues plant. Following plant redesign, have been relocated, managers need decide how manage new logistic flows. To that aim, hybrid approach encompassing mathematical optimization discrete event simulation (DES) is proposed. allows us reduce complexity by decomposing design into two phases. The first phase deals with cell’s alternatives using heuristic method find good quality solutions. Then, DES software used dynamically evaluate performance solutions respect operational features such as congestion intensity. second provides interesting managerial insights on manufacturing system both quantitative qualitative aspects related in-plant traffic.