ABSTRACT
Robust design of cellular manufacturing systems As changing conditions prevail in the manufacturing environment, the design of cellular manufacturing systems, which involves the formation of part families and machine cells, is difficult. This is due to the fact that the machines need to be relocated as per the requirements if adaptive designs are used. The purpose of this chapter is to illustrate the use of robust design with a real application. Some background of the problem is presented first, then each of the steps of the method is illustrated along with the data used throughout the study, and finally results are discussed.
6.1 Robust design versus adaptive design Cellular manufacturing (CM) is a model for workplace design and has become an integral part of Lean manufacturing systems. Cellular manufacturing is based upon the principles of group technology (GT), which seeks to take full advantage of the similarity between parts, through standardization and common processing. In functional manufacturing, similar machines are placed close together (e.g., lathes, millers, drills, etc.). Functional layouts are more robust to machine breakdowns, have common jigs and fixtures in the same area, and support high levels of demarcation. In cellular manufacturing systems (CMS), machines are grouped together according to the families of parts produced. The major advantage is that material flow is significantly improved, which reduces the distance traveled by materials, inventory, and cumulative lead times. Cellular manufacturing employs setup reduction and gives workers the tools to operate multiple processes that are multifunctional, owning quality improvements, waste reduction, and simple machine maintenance. This allows workers to easily self-balance within the cell while reducing lead times, resulting in the ability for companies to manufacture highquality products at a low cost, on time, and in a flexible way.
