Metaheuristic based control of a flow rack automated storage retrieval system

Abstract

This paper presents two metaheuristic algorithms, namely taboo search and simulated annealing, applied to the control of a flow rack automated storage retrieval system (AS/RS). These metaheuristic algorithms are developed to control the retrieval machine of the AS/RS in order to minimize the retrieval cycle time. Results of these metaheuristic algorithms are compared to classical heuristics and analytical models found in literature (Gaouar et al. in MOSIM 2006, Rabat, Maroc, avril 2006; Sari et al. in Int J Adv Manuf Technol 25:979---987, 2005; Ghomri & Sari in Conception et Production Integrees, CPI'2009, Fes, Maroc, 19---21 Octobre 2009). These heuristics were developed to control the storage and retrieval of items in the AS/RS. On the other hand, analytical models were conceived to bring a bottom line for comparison of different control techniques. To carry out this comparative study, simulations were performed on a wide range of system configurations. In order to validate metaheuristics results, a sensitive study on their parameters was achieved, and the best parameters were selected for comparative study.