Order picking algorithms for a two-carousel-single-crane automated storage and retrieval system

Abstract

In practice, automated storage and retrieval carousel systems access orders through a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis requires a longer storage and retrieval period with cleavage for reducing order access time. We developed a single-command mathematical model of a two-carousel-single-crane system based on storage and retrieval issues of the two-carousel-single-crane automated storage and retrieval system. Furthermore, based on these features, we developed a heuristic method to decide the sequence of storage and retrieval for both the single-layer-single-crane and two-carousel stages to design the fi nal storage and retrieval operations of the two-crane-single-crane system. The researchers conducted a process to determine the operation with the shortest storage and retrieval sequence, which was then compared to a simulated annealing process to identify their advantages and disadvantages.