Simulation model of multi-shuttle automated storage and retrieval systems

Automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) brought to industry the advantages of faster storages and retrieval of products, efficient utilization of storage space, high reliability and better control inventory, improved safety and decrease in damages of products. Therefore AS/RS which are used in manufacturing, warehousing and distribution centers have to be designed to provide quick response for storages and retrievals of products in order to keep the system operating efficiently. Heuristics travel time models for AS/RS with equal-sized cells in height and randomized storage under single- and multi-shuttle system are presented in this paper. The main contribution of proposed model is the implementation of the “Strategy x” and determination of relationship between average travel times and throughput capacity for different types of high storage racks and velocity profiles of storage retrieval machine.