Optimal two-dimensional layout of industrial facilities

Layout is an important aspect of the design of industrial plants. In this p aper a mathematical model is presented for the design of efficient and gene ric industrial layouts where a simultaneous solution of the block and detai led layout problem is considered. The optimal plant layout is obtained base d on the minimization of the connectivity cost. Connectivity can describe s imple pipe connections, guided vehicles or conveyors amongst others. Differ ent topological characteristics are considered such as different equipment orientations, distance restrictions, nonoverlapping constraints, different equipment connectivity inputs and outputs, irregular equipment shapes and s pace availability over a two-dimensional continuous area. In operational te rms, production together with operational sections are modelled as well as safety and operability restrictions. A Mixed-Integer Linear Problem (MILP) is developed where binary variables are introduced to characterize topologi cal choices and continuous variables describe the distances and locations i nvolved. To conclude, the applicability of the proposed formulation is illu strated via a set of representative examples.