A Genetic Algorithm for the Unequal Area Facility Layout Problem

Abstract

In this paper we apply a genetic algorithm for solving the facility layout problem. The focus is on departments of unequal sizes. The objective is primarily to minimize material flow factor cost. The chosen genetic method bases on an implemented space-filling curve which continuously connects each unequal area department in order to avoid disjoint areas. In contrast to the existing literature, which applies sweeping, spiral or Hilbert-type patterns, we propose Peano-type patterns. The original Peano curve has to be adjusted in order to be applicable to the considered facility layout problem. We describe the generation of the Peano curve and the applied genetic search. Further, we provide results from several test problems that demonstrate the very good suitability of modified Peano curves for the unequal area facility layout problem.