Using Multiple Load Vehicles for Internal Transport with Batch Arrivals of Loads

Abstract

In previous papers, we used a simulation model to look at how different dispatching rules can be classified, and at the effects on the performance of internal transport if the release time of loads can be forecasted using a virtual release time. We concluded that centralized rules outperform decentralized rules and that the performance of internal transport can be improved using virtual release times.

The simulation model will now be extended. When a truck with loads arrives at the receiving area of a warehouse, the loads are released for transport in batches, rather than one at a time. This means that several loads might have to wait before they can be picked-up. In general, batch releases of loads increase the average load waiting times.

We will also look at the classification of dispatching rules when multiple-load vehicles are used. When vehicles can transport more loads at a time, some of the loads can be picked up relatively earlier. Hence, reducing load waiting times. However, by combining load transports, the load transportation time will increase since some loads remain relatively longer on a vehicle (while being delivered). We will therefore look at the effects of the load throughput time, i.e. the load waiting time plus the load transportation time.

Lastly we will combine batch releases of loads and the use of multiple-load vehicles and classify the dispatching rules accordingly.