Thomas M. West

An integrated approach to facility location problems

Abstract An integrated analysis approach to facility location problems is described. The approach is based on integrating analytical location models and a multicriteria decision model.

Development of a spreadsheet-based capital investment model with sensitivity analysis

Abstract The Economic Analysis and Sensitivity Evaluation (EASE) model was designed to assist in the study of multiple parameter capital investment decisions. While written specifically for the Macro command structure of Borland QUATTRO, features of the model can be converted for use with other popular spreadsheets.

A machine-part based grouping algorithm in cellular manufacturing

Abstract A model and a suitable solution algorithm have been presented for determining optimal/near optimal part-machine clusters in cellular manufacturing. The total moves generated by parts have been evaluated as a weighted sum of both inter- and intracell moves. In particular, the intercell move has been evaluated as the number of bottle-neck machines a part is required to visit to complete its processing requirements. The in-cell machine utilization has been included as an important measure, and a targeted minimum utilization of 50% has been used for the purpose of application. A hypothetical problem has been developed and solved to test the effectiveness of the solution algorithm and the validity of the model. The results demonstrate that the model can be used as a suitable decision making tool by small and medium sized parts manufacturing companies in their production planning.

Evaluation of alternative materials handling systems

Abstract This paper addresses the development of a simulation model to assist in the selection of a new materials handling system for the service and repair group of a major electronics company.

A spreadsheet-based methodology for quality evaluations

Abstract This paper describes the development of a systematic, spreadsheet-based methodology for performing quality capability self-evaluation and diagnosis. ISO 9000 series standards and multicriteria evaluation techniques are employed to provide a sound basis for an easily applied decision support package.

A methodology for the evaluation of integrated manufacturing systems

Abstract The evaluation and selection of equipment for todays integrated manufacturing systems presents management with a complex multiattribute decision problems. This paper presents a spreadsheet based methodology that permits the incorporation of both monetary and non-monetary factors into the decision making process.

Incorporating parameter variability in multi-attribute evaluation

Abstract Most decision situations in business, manufacturing and service industries represent problems with multiple alternatives where more than one objective needs to be considered in evaluating mutually exclusive strategies. A variety of approaches have been proposed and employed for evaluating such multi-attribute problems. These approaches generally utilize single point or most likely estimates in the evaluation process. This paper addresses the problem of developing a probabilistic additive weighting methodology which facilitates the inclusion of variability in the evaluation procedure.

A comparison of methodologies for efficient part-machine cluster formation

Abstract A comparison of two different models for solving machine cluster formation problems in cellular manufacturing is presented in this paper. The models focus on minimizing total part handling operations evaluated as a weighted sum of inter- and intracell moves. The concept used in the evaluation of intercell moves accounts for the difference between the two models. The utilization rate of active workstations has also been incorporated as an important measure and a targeted minimum utilization of 50% is used in this study. Performance of the models have been evaluated by the application of an example problem which has frequently appeared in published literature. The results indicate one model is significantly more attractive as a decision making tool for use in discrete parts manufacturing.

Economic modeling and sensitivity analysis of a alternative power plant designs

Abstract This paper presents a summary of the methodology employed in investigating the economic feasibility of constructing small (10 MW e ) biomass-fueled electric generating plants, specifically, the development of an interactive computer program designed for the calculation of levelized bus bar power costs and the application of this program to perform economic sensitivity analyses.

A Simulation-based Approach to Evaluating Design-Manufacturing Process

SUMMARY Product design and evaluation require a broad and varied set of information and analysis tools, and effective design and evaluation of a product during its design phase is critical if production costs are to be minimized. A system is described that integrates product design specifications with material and process databases, and a simulation-based analysis module. The system allows product design specifications to be evaluated in terms of economic and technical criteria. The system will serve as a training tool in the computer-integrated manufacturing courses in our undergraduate curriculum. It allows students to investigate ways to design better products through integration of design and manufacturing, and to explore trade-offs between design and manufacturing