Simulation Modelling

WATMIMS developed a simulation model to investigate whether a "semi-automated" CD (one with a mixture of SDVs and forklifts, in the proper proportions) could improve the productivity of the CD.

A facility such as a warehouse, distribution centre, or cross-dock (CD) generally uses manual material handling equipment such as forklift trucks ("forklifts") to move pallets in the facility. What if, in a CD, those forklifts were supplemented with self-driving vehicles (SDVs)? An SDV need not follow a pre-determined path. An SDV can be programmed to go around an obstacle, or to wait until the way is clear, and does not require human guidance (the way a forklift does).

WATMIMS developed a simulation model to investigate whether a "semi-automated" CD (one with a mixture of SDVs and forklifts, in the proper proportions) could improve the productivity of the CD. And for a given number of pallets handled per shift, could the cost per pallet be reduced in the semi-automated CD, relative to the forklift-only CD?

A number of CDs, with SDVs and forklifts in various proportions, were studied via simulation. Certain semi-automated facilities were found to be competitive with a standard CD. For the right cost parameters and appropriate numbers of material-handling equipment, the forklift-plus-SDV CD could financially outperform the forklift-only facility, for similar values of the performance metrics.