A Unique Strategy for Improving Facility Layout: An Introduction of The Origin Algorithm

Abstract

The Facility Layout Problem (FLP) is a challenging task with significant sustainability implications. Due to its multifaceted nature, it is classified as a non-deterministic polynomial-time (NP)-hard problem, further compounded by increasing computational demands. The FLP aims to optimise the allocation of factory facilities to maximise production efficiency while minimising material handling costs. To tackle these challenges, researchers have developed a two-phase heuristic algorithm called The Origin (TO), which draws inspiration from the experiential process of the bin-packing problem. The TO algorithm considers various factors, such as operating and capacity limitations, as well as material handling costs, to optimize facility layout designs. Extensive evaluations of the TO algorithm using benchmark sizes ranging from 14 to 125 have shown that it outperforms alternative metaheuristic approaches. The TO algorithm yields more sustainable outcomes by minimising material handling costs while improving production efficiency. These results highlight the importance of addressing various constraints, especially industrial constraints, in facility layout designs and demonstrates the potential of heuristic algorithms to support these efforts.