In this paper, a bi-objective optimization model is developed to integrate the cell formation and inter/intra-cell layouts in continuous space by considering fuzzy conditions to minimize the total cost of parts relocations as well as cells reconfigurations. The intra- and inter-cell movements for both parts and machines using batch sizes for transferring parts are related to the distance traveled through a rectilinear distance in a fuzzy environment. To solve the proposed problem as a bi-objective mixed-integer non-linear programming model is NP-hard, four meta-heuristic algorithms based on a multi-objective optimization structure are tackled to address the problem. In this regard, not only Genetic Algorithm (GA), Keshtel Algorithm (KA) and Red Deer Algorithm (RDA) are employed to solve the problem, but also a novel hybrid meta-heuristic algorithm based on the benefits of aforementioned algorithms is developed. Finally, by considering some efficient assessment metrics of Pareto-based algorithms, the results indicate that the proposed hybrid algorithm not only is more appropriate than the exact solver but it also outperforms the performance of individual ones particularly in medium- and large-sized problems.

Hydraulic turbines constitute an essential component within the hydroelectric power generation industry, contributing to renewable energy production with minimal environmental pollution. Maintaining stable turbine operation presents a considerable challenge, which necessitates effective fault diagnosis and warning systems. Timely and efficient fault w arnings are particularly vital, as they enable personnel to address emerging issues promptly. Although backpropagation (BP) networks are frequently employed in fault warning systems, they exhibit several limitations, such as susceptibility to local optima. To mitigate this issue, this paper introduces an improved social engineering optimizer (ISEO) method aimed at optimizing BP networks for developing a hydraulic turbine warning system. Experimental results reveal that the ISEO-BP-based approach offers a highly effective fault warning system, as evidenced by superior performance metrics when compared to alternative methods.

Machine learning, neural networks, and metaheuristic algorithms are relatively new subjects, closely related to each other: learning is somehow an intrinsic part of all of them. On the other hand, cell formation (CF) and facility layout design are the two fundamental steps in the CMS implementation. To get a successful CMS design, addressing the interrelated decisions simultaneously is important. In this article, a new nonlinear mixed-integer programming model is presented which comprehensively considers solving the integrated dynamic cell formation and inter/intracell layouts in continuous space. In the proposed model, cells are configured in flexible shapes during the planning horizon considering cell capacity in each period. This study considers the exact information about facility layout design and material handling cost. The proposed model is an NP-hard mixed-integer nonlinear programming model. To optimize the proposed problem, first, three metaheuristic algorithms, that is, Genetic Algorithm (GA), Keshtel Algorithm (KA), and Red Deer Algorithm (RDA), are employed. Then, to further improve the quality of the solutions, using machine learning approaches and combining the results of the aforementioned algorithms, a new metaheuristic algorithm is proposed. Numerical examples, sensitivity analyses, and comparisons of the performances of the algorithms are conducted.