Title: Analytical travel time models for single and double command of multi-aisle automated storage and retrieval system

Authors: Xin Lu; Hong-yuan Shi; Li Wang; Da-wei Li

Addresses: Basic Department of Yingkou Institute of Technology, Yingkou, China ' Department of Economics and Management, Yingkou Institute of Technology, Yingkou, China ' School of Electronic and Information Engineering, University of Science and Technology Liaoning, Anshan, China ' School of Science, University of Science and Technology Liaoning, Anshan, China

Abstract: There is only one storage/retrieval machine in the multi-aisle automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS). In this system the initial investment cost is low. We concentrate on analysing the travel time of the storage/retrieval machines in the automatic warehouse. This paper mainly addresses two issues: the travel time of the storage/retrieval machine for only one command (storage or retrieval); the travel time of the storage/retrieval machine for dual command (storage and retrieval). We design the motion of the storage and retrieval machine (SRM) according to the actual situation. It first accelerates to its top speed then moves uniformly and decelerates till 0 at last. The travel time of the two issues are solved on the front. Finally, we use a numerical example to prove the validity of our model. The results of the analytical travel time model are satisfactory. And it could be very useful tools for designing of multi-aisle automated storage and retrieval systems in real-world applications.

Keywords: travel time; warehouse; automated storage and retrieval system; AS/RS; logistics system; single command; double command; manufacturing technology and management.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMTM.2020.106208

International Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management, 2020 Vol.34 No.2, pp.111 - 125

Received: 28 Dec 2016
Accepted: 25 Mar 2017
Published online: 02 Apr 2020 *

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