Application of artificial neural network for fuzzy logic based leanness assessment

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report a case study in which artificial neural network (ANN) has been used for performing fuzzy logic based leanness assessment.

Design/methodology/approach

Leanness is the measure of lean manufacturing practice. Fuzzy logic has been used for the calculation of leanness. To improve the effectiveness of computation, ANN tool has been used in this study. The network has been modeled, trained and simulated using the MATLAB software.

Findings

The disadvantages associated with the scoring method has been overcome by the deployment of fuzzy logic. The problem associated with manual computation has been overcome by the application of ANN. The simulated model has been validated by measuring the leanness level of the case organization.

Research limitations/implications

The case study has been carried out in a single electronic switches manufacturing organization. In the fuzzy logic approach, triangular fuzzy numbers are being used in the present study.

Practical implications

The paper reports a case study conducted in an Indian transformers manufacturing organisation. Hence, the results derived from the study are validated in a real time manufacturing environment.

Originality/value

The idea of applying ANN for fuzzy logic based leanness assessment is the original contribution of the authors.

Citation

Vimal, K.E.K. and Vinodh, S. (2013), "Application of artificial neural network for fuzzy logic based leanness assessment", Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, Vol. 24 No. 2, pp. 274-292. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410381311292340