OPTIMAL STORAGE ASSIGNMENT IN AUTOMATIC WAREHOUSING SYSTEMS

In the past few years, increasing numbers of automatic warehousing systems using computer-controlled stacker cranes have been installed. This research concerns the scientific scheduling and design of these systems. There are three elements to scheduling: the assignment of multiple items to the same pallet (Pallet Assignment); the assignment of pallet loads to storage locations (Storage Assignment); and rules for sequencing storage and retrieve requests (Interleaving). This paper deals with optimal storage assignment. Results are obtained which compare the operating performance of three storage assignment rules: random assignment, which is similar to the closest-open-location rule used by many currently operating systems; full turnover-based assignment; and class-based turnover assignment. It is shown that significant reductions in crane travel time (and distance) are obtainable from turnover-based rules.

• Corporate Authors:

  Institute of Management Sciences

  146 Westminster Street
  Providence, RI  United States  02903
• Authors:
  • Hausman, W H
  • Schwarz, L B
  • Graves, S C
• Publication Date: 1976-2

Media Info

• Features: References;
• Pagination: p. 629-638
• Serial:
  • MANAGEMENT SCIENCE
  • Volume: 22
  • Issue Number: 6

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Automation; Container handling; Container terminals; Handling and storage; Information processing; Mathematical models; Operations research; Optimization; Pallets; Storage facilities; Stowage; Warehouses
• Old TRIS Terms: Automatic container stowage; Palletized cargo
• Subject Areas: Freight Transportation; Marine Transportation; Terminals and Facilities;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00148159
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Engineering Index
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Feb 16 1977 12:00AM