Cell layout heuristic for a mass customization manufacturing environment

Mass customization is becoming increasingly important as a manufacturing strategy to meet the demand for individualized products that can be manufactured at a low cost and delivered quickly. Existing manufacturing systems, including cellular manufacturing, do not provide the flexibility required for such a strategy. Rather than traditional cells designed around a part family, 'mini-cells' - designed around a feature family can be used to increase flexibility in mass customization environments. Four heuristics for arranging mini-cells are described and tested to evaluate their effectiveness. Insights gained for future research in mini-cells are also presented.