Interactive Facility Layout Algorithm for the Personal Computer

Abstract

This thesis involved th development of a computer algorithm meant to assist the layout planner in the design of facility layouts. An IBM Personal Computer with a light pen and color monitor was used, and user knowledge of both basic layout concepts and general microcomputer usage was assumed. Although several other algorithms have been developed which actually create or improve layouts without any assistance from the designer, this program is used only as a tool; the creativity and subjective skill of the layout e planner is fully utilized. Because no other algorithms adequately combine the data manipulation powers of the computer with the creative abilities of the human, I believe that this work has a useful place in the arena of layout planning aids. As computer understanding matures, I feel that there will be more applications in which the computer and the human work as a team rather than as separate entities. This program works toward that end.