Design and Control of Shuttle-Based Storage and Retrieval Systems Using a Simulation Approach

Abstract

During recent years, Shuttle-based Storage and Retrieval Systems (SBS/RSs) have been widely applied in distribution centers and production sites to meet the increasing demand for rapid and flexible large-scale warehousing activities. Recognizing the complex service dynamics due to the use of different types of S/R devices, both the configuration design problem and operational control problem need to be studied in order to improve efficient, sustainable and robust performance of the system. An animated, data-driven and data-generated simulation model is developed to support the development of both the design and configuration methodology and operational control strategy of SBS/RS-based warehouse systems. The model enables detailed analysis of different system configurations and technology options including tier-captive and tier-to-tier, multi-deep rack designs, multi-capacity lifts, etc., and provides visualized tracking of accurately simulated service processes of the S/R devices and performance evaluation under configurable demand scenarios.