Cellular or Functional Layout?

The cellular layout has been compared to the traditional functional layout using multiple comparison methodologies that either lack objectivity or are highly time-consuming. The main purpose of this chapter is to propose a novel and objective methodology. Hence, a critical analysis of ten comparison studies is followed by the presentation of the layouts simulation models. Subsequently, the proposed comparison methodology is described. Following this methodology, simulations are conducted according to a plan of experiments developed from Taguchi standard orthogonal arrays. Consequently, results, expressed in Signal to Noise ratios, are analyzed using ANOVA. Next, a mathematical model is derived by interpolation between the factors and interactions effects. This model must be validated by the confirmation test, otherwise the comparison methodology should be reiterated while considering new interactions. This cycle should be reiterated as much as necessary to obtain a valid mathematical model. The proposed comparison methodology has been applied with success on an academic manufacturing system.