Monte carlo approach for performance evaluation in automatic storage and retrieval systems

Markets today are characterized by high service and quality requirements. Customers want short lead time, multi-frequency deliveries. Warehousing plays a fundamental role in this scenario especially with its specific use of automatic storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS). During recent years many analytical approaches for AS/RS performance evaluation have been developed. This paper presents a simulative method of analysis based on Monte Carlo simulation that produces rapid and realistic evaluation of system performance in any conditions of work, for example in different storage policies, different picking policies, and with variations in technical equipment. Traditional simulative approaches are based on dedicated languages and require significant effort. The method proposed here attempts to link the advantages of simulation approach with speed and low cost. After validation via comparison with traditional AS/RS, this paper shows the potential of the proposed methodology in transient and non conventional work conditions. A case study is presented which explains the approach’s simplicity and effectiveness.