Travel-time model of dual-command cycles in a 3D compact AS/RS with lower mid-point I/O dwell point policy

Abstract

Three-dimensional compact automated storage/retrieval systems (AS/RS) have been extensively applied in warehouses, with advantages of full automation, time efficiency and high space utilisation. While previous studies that use lower mid-point input/output (I/O) dwell point policy consider single-command cycles (SC), this paper builds travel-time models of dual-command cycles (DC). The S/R crane also dwells in the lower mid-point of the rack when it is idle. We validate analytical models using simulation and use analytical models to optimise system dimensions. Numerical experiments are used to compare DC with SC. The results show that DC outperform SC in terms of cycle time of one command.