Plant layout planning using ART neural networks

In this paper, a new grouping method for group technology using ART-1 networks is proposed. The purpose of our study is to divide machines in a factory into any number of groups so that the machines in each group can process a similar set of parts to increase productivity. In our method, ART-1 is used to divide machines roughly. After that, adjusting algorithms are executed to satisfy specified grouping conditions (the number of groups, maximum and minimum number of machines in a group). Some experimental results show that our new algorithm is more effective than the grouping algorithm using SOM proposed by the authors in past times.