A mathematical programming approach to simultaneous unit-load and fleet-size optimisation in material handling systems design

Abstract

This paper develops a model for simultaneously determining the optimal performance-based unit-load and fleet sizes for material handling vehicles serving work stations in a manufacturing system. The mathematical programming model maximises the number of units transported by the material handling vehicle during a given production cycle. The optimisation model simultaneously specifies the unit-load and fleet sizes, based on material transportation requirements and system characteristics.