Enhanced Genetic Algorithm-Based Fuzzy Multiobjective Strategy to Multiproduct Batch Plant Design

Abstract

The design of such plants necessary involves how equipment may be utilized, which means that plant scheduling and production must form an integral part of the design problem. This work proposes an alternative treatment of the imprecision (demands) by using fuzzy concepts. In this study, we introduce a new approach to the design problem based on a multi-objective genetic algorithm, taking into account simultaneously maximization of the net present value $N\tilde{P}V$ and two other performance criteria, i.e. the production delay/advance and a flexibility criterion. The methodology provides a set of scenarios that are helpful to the decision’s maker and constitutes a very promising framework for taken imprecision into account in new product development stage. Besides, a hybrid selection method Pareto rank-tournament was proposed and showed a better performance than the classical Goldberg’s wheel, systematically leading to a higher number of non-dominated solutions.