Increased throughput by aisle zoning in end-of-aisle order picking AS/R systems

Graduation date: 1982A simulation study of end-of-aisle order picking AS/R systems\ud is made with special emphasis on improving the system throughput by\ud introducing a zone near the home (Input/Output) location on each side\ud of the aisle, for storing partially picked pallets. The study considered\ud class-based-turnover assignment policies, one with a zone and\ud one without any, zone for handling partially picked pallets. A simulation\ud model is devised sufficiently flexible to simulate both systems.\ud The simulation is based on discrete simulation principles using\ud FORTRAN and the GASP IV Simulation language. Both systems are simulated\ud under similar conditions and the effects of the three factors,\ud average order size, number of items stored and the pick frequency of\ud the items, each at two levels are studied and analyzed. Steady State\ud results of the simulation with two independent replications are reported\ud and subjected to statistical analysis. Result and analyses\ud indicate that the introduction of zones for handling partially picked\ud pallets does improve the system throughput by decreasing the crane travel time, ranging from seven to 20 percent depending upon the\ud prevailing conditions