A performance calculation approach for a robotic compact storage and retrieval system (RCS/RS) serving one picking station

Abstract

The number of robotic compact storage and retrieval systems (RCS/RS) is one of the fastest growing compared to other storage systems. Over a thousand systems with a large spectrum of design and order speed are already in operation. Nonetheless, there is hardly any information on throughput or optimal system design. This paper presents an analytical approach for the performance calculation of an RCS/RS, which operates with several robots serving one I/O shaft. One robot’s cycle time is calculated by assuming a uniform distribution of container stacks and a probabilistic storage height. Based on this, the interaction of the robots at the I/O shaft is considered using an open queueing model with limited capacity. After validating the analytical approach using a discrete event simulation model of an RCS/RS, an extensive parameter variation is done. The easy and fast solvability with standard calculation programs and applicability are just two benefits.