New mathematical model, for problem of dynamic cell formation based on number and average length of intra and intercellular movements

This article presents a new nonlinear integer programming model for dynamic cell formation problem in cell manufacturing system. Difference between this model and other models developed thus far lies in implementation of the idea of more material flow in shorter distance in formation of cells. The presented model is NP-hard. A new strategy known as simulated annealing embedded in branch and cut was developed to solve the problem. In comparison with standard branch and cut, results of solving different problems showed speed and efficiency of simulated annealing embedded in branch and cut. (C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.