Knowledge-based system for group technology (KBGT)

A knowledge-based system, KBGT, for solving the group technology problem is presented. The formulation of the group technology problem involves constraints related to machine capacity, material handling system capability, and machine cell dimension. It has been developed for an automated manufacturing system. The KBGT takes advantage of the developments in expert systems and optimization. Two basic components of the knowledge-based system, namely the knowledge-based subsystem and the heuristic clustering algorithm, are discussed. Each partial solution generated by the clustering algorithm is evaluated for feasibility by the knowledge-based subsystem, which modifies search directions of the algorithm. The KBGT is illustrated with numerical examples