An AutoCAD-Based Expert System For Plant Layout

This paper describes the development of a plant layout system implemented in AutoLISP on an IBM PS/2 computer. This system combines computational algorithms, human expertise, and computer graphics in one program for plant layout design and drafting. The objective is to develop a computer system for automation of the layout design and documentation process.

This system emulates a plant layout expert in the last step of plant layout process. The input to the system includes department dimensions, between-department material flows, and aisle width. The system generates and evaluates layout alternatives according to given objectives. AutoCAD commands are called to plot the layout when an alternative layout is being created. This system ensures that each department has an access to the aisle and the travel distance between two departments are measured along the aisle. As both design expertise and computer graphics are programmed in the same environment, the interfacing problem between them is easily eliminated.