A genetic search approach to facility layout problem for microfluidics device fabrication

Abstract

This paper focuses on facility layout design problem in microfluidic device manufacturing. Microfluidics device manufacturing requires exquisite work of operators and relatively much higher material cost than other types of manufacturing. Facility layout problem can directly affect the overall cost of manufacturing, particularly in handling and transport cost. Therefore, the objective of this study is to minimize the total handling and transport cost for facility layout design problem. A genetic algorithm (GA) is employed to find a good alternative facility layout design which is based on the performance metrics. Experimental results show that this approach is more feasible in dealing with the facility layout in microfluidics device fabrication.