Deciding on the Ideal Channel Coefficients in Multi-Channel Manufacturing

This paper provides a methodology to determine ideal channel coefficients in multi-channel manufacturing (MCM). MCM enhances the advantages of cellular manufacturing by expanding the capabilities of the cells to handle multiple products. The ideal channel coefficients are needed as input for MCM design techniques. While determining ideal channel coefficients (so channel coefficients), we want to assign more profitable parts to more channels. In some cases, this may require additional investment (as extra machines) for some of the channels. These two conflicted goals must be compromised. To do this, the analytic network process (ANP) approach, which is one of the systematic decision-aid tools, is used. The developed model is solved by Super Decisions software. Results showed that ANP is a powerful methodology to determine ideal channel coefficients in MCM design.