Article Details
  • Published Online:
    August  2026
  • Product Name:
    The IUP Journal of Mechanical Engineering
  • Product Type:
    Article
  • Product Code:
    IJME050726
  • DOI:
    10.71329/IUPJMECH/2026.19.3.51-79
  • Author Name:
    Nazim Khan and Kamal Deep
  • Availability:
    YES
  • Subject/Domain:
    Engineering
  • Download Format:
    PDF
  • Pages:
    51-79
Volume 19, Issue 3, July-September 2026
Emerging Trends and Challenges in Facility Layout Planning: A Comprehensive Review
Abstract

The paper presents a systematic and critical assessment of major facility layout planning (FLP) problems and the corresponding solution methodologies reported in the literature review. The study critically analyzes existing optimization techniques with respect to their modeling capabilities, computational efficiency, scalability, and industrial applicability. Further, the review identifies key research gaps and emerging challenges associated with dynamic manufacturing environments, uncertainty handling, sustainability considerations, and large-scale optimization. Particular emphasis is placed on recent advancements involving artificial intelligence (AI), reinforcement learning, digital twin technology, Industry 4.0-enabled smart manufacturing systems, sustainability-oriented optimization, and real-time decision-making frameworks. The paper aims to serve as a comprehensive reference source for researchers, academicians, and industrial practitioners working in the domain of facility layout optimization and advanced manufacturing system design.

Introduction

Facility layout planning (FLP) is one of the most significant decision-making activities in manufacturing systems, production engineering, logistics, warehousing, healthcare systems, and service operations.