An multi-objective optimal model to solve the dynamic cell formation problem considering machine sharing

In this paper, a multi-objectives model of dynamic cellular manufacturing (DCM) formation is proposed. This model can solve the problem of the optimal con_guration of the manufacturing cells by weighing conicting objectives namely: machine related costs, machine utilization, and material handling cost. In addition, the situation that some machines could be shared by more than one cell at the same period is also considered. To solve the mathematical model, a genetic algorithm is applied and three numerical examples are presented to evaluate the validity of this model.