Travel time models for double-deep automated storage and retrieval systems

Abstract

In this paper new analytical travel time models for the computation of cycle times for unit-load double-deep automated storage and retrieval systems (in continuation double-deep AS/RS) are presented. The proposed models consider the real operating characteristics of the storage and retrieval machine and the condition of rearranging blocking loads to the nearest free storage location during the retrieval process. With the assumption of the uniform distributed storage rack positions and the probability theory, the expressions of the single and modified dual command cycle have been determined. The proposed models enable the calculation of the mean cycle time for single and dual command cycles, from which the performance of the double-deep AS/RS can be evaluated. A simulation model of the selected double-deep AS/RS has been developed to compare the performances of the proposed analytical travel time models. The numerical analyses show that with regard to the examined type of double-deep AS/RS with a different fill-grade factor, the results of the proposed analytical travel time models correlate with the results of simulation models of double-deep AS/RS.

Keywords:

• double-deep AS/RS
• travel time analysis
• mathematical modelling

Acknowledgements

The authors of this paper would like to express a special thanks to all collaborators at the Faculty of Mechanical and Civil Engineering in Maribor and at the Institute of Logistic Systems in Graz and others colleagues who have in any way contributed to this manuscript.