Applying Formal Concept Analysis in Machine-Part Grouping Problems

The machine-part cell formation problem is a frequently studied task of group technology. Starting from the machine-part incidence matrix the manufacturing cells and the associated part families are to be determined. This paper provides a solution method of the problem applying the tools of formal concept analysis. Based on formal concepts we define the extent partitions of an object set, which can be used for determining machine cells. Some experimental results are also added solving sample problems identified in the literature.