Quantum Annealing based factory layout planning. (April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Klar, Matthias; Schworm, Philipp; Wu, Xiangqian; Glatt, Moritz; Aurich, Jan C.
• Is Part Of: Manufacturing letters. Volume 32(2022)
• Page Start: 59
• Page End: 62
• Publication Date: 2022-04
• Subjects: QA Quantum Annealing -- QUBO quadratic unconstrained binary optimization; Layout planning -- Quantum Annealing -- Facility layout problem -- QUBO -- Optimization; Manufacturing industries -- Periodicals; Production engineering -- Periodicals; Manufacturing industries; Periodicals; 670
• DOI: 10.1016/j.mfglet.2022.03.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2213-8463

Abstract

Abstract: Inadequately planned factory layouts can lead to higher operational costs. The planning process is time-consuming and multiple planning parameters must be considered simultaneously, leading to large solution spaces. Automated planning approaches can support the planning team in the early phases of layout planning by generating layout variants that can afterwards be further specified. Recent studies from other disciplines have shown the potential of Quantum Annealing (QA) to solve complex assignment problems within seconds. Consequently, this paper presents a first implementation of a QA-based layout planning approach and demonstrates its advantages regarding scalability, solution quality, and computing time.