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Published in

MDPI, Processes, 1(10), p. 2, 2021

DOI: 10.3390/pr10010002

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Automated Stacker Cranes: A Two-Step Storage Reallocation Process for Enhanced Service Efficiency

Journal article published in 2021 by Bashir Salah ORCID, Mohammed Alnahhal ORCID, Rafiq Ahmad ORCID
This paper is made freely available by the publisher.
This paper is made freely available by the publisher.

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Abstract

Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) play a key role in improving the performance of automated manufacturing systems, warehouses, and distribution centers. In the modern manufacturing industry, the term (AS/RS) refers to various methods under computer control for storing and retrieving loads automatically from defined storage locations. Using an (AS/RS) is not considered a value-added activity. Therefore, the longer (AS/RS) travels, the more expensive the warehousing process becomes. This paper presents an algorithm for minimizing total travel distance/time between input/output (I/O) stations. The proposed algorithm is used to manage the storage and retrieval orders on warehouse shelves in class-based storage on the storage racks. It contains two steps: the first step is to evacuate some storage compartments (locations) near the I/O station; in the second step, some tote bins are reallocated to compartments closer to the I/O station. Among the features of this algorithm are mechanisms that determine the number of reallocated tote bins, which tote bins to reallocate, and in which direction (toward the I/O station or away from it). A simulation model using R software developed specifically for this purpose was used to validate the suggested method. Based on the results, the new method can reduce the service time per order by about 10% to 20%, depending on parameters like the number of orders and the height of the storage rack.