20. The Gingersnap Company is interested in designing a new plant. Forecasts of the future product mix and demand levels indicate the floorspace requirements for the six production departments shown in the following table. The company does not want the space occupied by any department to be more than twice as long as it is wide. The company plans to use a metal building that has a width of 120 feet and can be constructed in any length. The building site will accommodate a building up to 300 feet long.

The expected numbers of trips among the departments each week are indicated in the second table that follows. Assume that the transportation costs per foot traveled are equal between all pairs of departments. Suggest a layout of these departments that will fit the building, provide the desired floor space, and minimize transportation costs.

Transcribed Image Text:

Floor-Space Requirements for Six Departments DEPARTMENT SPACE REQUIRED A 4,000 B 5,000 C 3,600 D 7,500 E 2,500 F 4,000 To Departments From AB 24 B C D E F 80 10 5 2 20 20 5 90 6 10 C 6 0 6 0 120 D 10 18 100 0 30 E 20 16 20 2 18 F 4 20 25 18 95