Development of a methodology for the systematic description of automatic storage systems

Abstract

The planning of automated storage systems has so far been largely based on empirical manufacturer data or complex simulations. Analytical approaches, particularly standardized methods, exist only in isolated cases and are usually limited to specific systems. This work develops a systematic description methodology for modeling automated storage systems. The foundation is the functional subdivision into the areas of storage, transport, and transfer, each represented by clearly defined modules. The decoupling of these functions enables not only a structured but also technology- and layout-independent system description. This is supplemented by coupling conditions in the form of rule sets and layout specifications, which allow flexible modeling for a wide variety of systems. The applicability of the methodology is demonstrated using the Gebhardt Instapick system. It is shown how qualitative and quantitative properties as well as system states can be transformed into a consistent description. Based on this, initial insights can be derived for the automated calculation of cycle times, contributing to the development of analytical planning tools.