AutoLogic Systems Limited - 01844 281380
Simulation for materials handling & distribution
The AutoMod software includes specialist modules that have been used by our customers and consultants to successfully model a variety of applications throughout the materials handling and distribution industries. For more details of applications, benefits and examples, please follow the links. If you’d like further information then please feel free to contact us
Conventional warehousing
Applications
All aspects of conventional warehouse simulation including:-
- Counter Balance Fork-lift Trucks
- Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) Trucks
- Reach and Pallet Trucks
- Low and High Level Order Picking
- Storage areas including Block Stack, Adjustable Pallet Racking and Drive-in Racking
- Goods in/out docks incorporating side and end loading
Benefits
Utilization of all items of Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) over time and racking/storage area utilization. Dock utilization and throughput measures prior to commissioning.
Distribution Centres
Applications
Preliminary and detailed simulation analysis of designs for new or modified distribution centres (DCs) incorporating historical or live data for orders and SKU profiles. From receipt through dispatch using conventional or automated storage systems and all handling systems such as conveyors, transfer cars, pallet trucks etc;
Models have included:-
- goods in/out
- order picking and consolidation
- sortation
- replenishment
- packing/shipping
- operator levels and requirements
Benefits
DC throughput analysis using historical or planned operating data. Orders tracked and shipped over time. Equipment, storage area and operator utilizations. Testing of complex control logic and algorithms prior to implementation. Analysis of capacity and ‘pinch points’ in handling systems.
Automated Warehousing
Applications
We have specialist tools and expertise for detailed simulation and analysis of Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS). Warehouse Management System (WMS) control can be fully incorporated and complex put-away or retrieval algorithms implemented and tested. The types of systems we have modelled have included:-
- crane based AS/RS with high bay pallet racking
- horizontal and vertical component movement according to loading.
- storage and retrieval of products by individual location or product zones
- mini-load crane systems and tote handling
- multi-device cranes
- multi-aisle AS/RS based on transfer car shuttles for bay switching
A variety of related automated storage systems have also been modelled:-
- horizontal and vertical carousel systems
- specialist conveyor and shuttle car based storage systems
- other automated storage mechanisms such as mobile racking.
Benefits
Analysis of warehouse capacity with detailed utilisation of cranes and racking over time including single/double cycle reports. Dwell times by individual SKU or grouping. Testing of WMS algorithms and warehouse control software prior to implementation. Retrieval time and capacity analysis for other automated storage systems.
Specialist Applications
Applications
Within the broad range of industries using materials handling systems and equipment we have provided simulation solutions covering many differing applications. Examples of applications have included:-
- Heavy industry applications eg using gantry or bridge cranes for iron&steel, paper reels, scrap/waste handling & recycling simulation
- Bulk handling simulation for mining, chemical and aggregates.
- Port cargo handling simulation including RTG cranes and container handling and storage yards
- Simulation of mail and parcel handling equipment and centres
Benefits
The ability to simulate and quantify the impact of change on capacity, equipment utilisation and throughput prior to making modifications or investing in new systems.
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