Analytic hierarchy process for cell layout selection and simulation for electronic manufacturing service plant

Abstract

This research presents the selection of a cellular layout for an Electronics Manufacturing Service (EMS) by AnalysisHierarchy Process (AHP). Moreover, the selectedly outisevaluated by computer simulation. EMSistermed usedfor companies that design, test, manufacture, distribute and provide returned and repaired services for electroniccomponents and assemblies for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). It has to be able to adjust it self according to rapidly change of customers. Process layout is unsuitable because it Is not flexible in alteringprocesses for new products. The refore, cellular layout is considered for changing. However, the rearemanydesigns. Criteria are also contained both qualitative and quantitative information. So, AHP isused to select thebest lay out. Main criteria for evaluation are material handling, layout characteristics, investment cost and flexibility.There sult of evaluation found that group technology and cell centeris the mostsuitable layout. Then, computersimulation was done for evaluation the layout design. From the result of simulation, the cellular layout design canincrease through put rate 32%, can decrease average time in the system 28% and can increase average utilizationof a work station 13%.

Keywords : Analytic hierarchy process (AHP), Layout selection, Cellular layout, Simulation