A combined bi-level approach for the spatial design of rack storage area

Abstract

This paper presents the problem of arrangement of storage racks for non-uniform load units in a storage area space when considering limitations created by the carrying pillars of a warehouse. Three variants of rack section arrangement within the planning grid of carrying pillars are presented. A mathematical formalism of the arrangement within the X, Y, and Z axes is introduced. An exact model for the warehouse building cost minimization and space consumption minimization has been defined. The model has been enriched with numerical examples. Finally, the bi-level approach containing both the mathematical model and the coordinating procedure for the problem solution is presented.

Keywords:

• engineering
• logistics
• transport
• optimization
• heuristics
• storage area design