Sensitivity analysis for machine cell formation using mathematical model and computer simulation

This thesis presents a mathematical model for the sensitivity analysis of machine cell formation. Computer programs in C were developed. A statistical simulation model is developed to test and verify the mathematical model. The data for machine cell formation in cellular manufacturing is organized in a machine component chart representing the machining requirements of parts in the product mix. The existing machine cell formation models treat the product mix as deterministic. To study the probabilistic nature of the cellular manufacturing, a sensitivity analysis model is presented. The model optimizes the formation of intercellular material handling cost for the machine cell within the constrains of the probability of the product mixture. The results of the mathematical model is compared with the results of the simulation model. It shows that the probabilistic product mix has a influence on the efficiency of the machine cell and the associated total cost.