SIMULATIONS IN MATERIAL FLOWS PLANNING IN WAREHOUSES

Abstract

In modeling of the use of equipment, different approaches can be applied. It is always assumed that the material, or goods, is at the point A and that a forklift truck or AGV carry it to the point B for further processing. Modeling of connections between points A and B can be accomplished in several ways. In the conventional simulations, such as Siemens' Plant simulation, Delmia's Quest, InControl's Enterprise Dynamics, etc., the equipment is used in transportation for a direct transfer between these two points. The disposition of the one level warehouse is not taken into consideration. In more modern planning, the movement of the working means is modeled using the "inflexible" paths, which consider the multi-level structure of warehouse in the part relating to the forklift paths, using Java or C++. The more complex the structure is, the higher number of the possible paths need to be modeled. This approach is unreliable if the layout changes because the simulation experts must change the trajectories of every possible means according to the new applied technology. The aim of this paper is to present a methodology that can reduce the number of the changes in the model when the warehouse needs to be modified. Here is presented an algorithm for movement planning, which automatically determines the trajectories of the work means, depending on the current machines disposition, without colliding with other objects in the considered virtual warehouse. The basic feature of this model is that it is applicable not only in warehouses with a ground level but also in all multi-level warehouses regardless the number of floors.