The changing role of the integrated AS/RS system in achieving heuristic factory control

The hardware and software integration architecture represented by the physical AS/RS system (i.e., robotic cranes, computer workstations, and sensor-driven conveyor systems) is discussed. Modular, hierarchical functionality is implemented using object-oriented software structures that are distributed between IBM mainframes, digital minicomputers, and crane resident microprocessors. Message-passing capabilities of these distributed software modules, necessary for efficient system integration, enable the system to direct automatically the processing of an order from customer receipt, through picking, inspection, and shipping, with minimal human intervention. In the second segment of this work, the role of automated material handling and AS/RS systems in achieving the optimal navigation of product through the virtual enterprise of the future is discussed.<>