Materials handling interface models for storage systems design

This paper describes an analytical modeling methodology to support the allocation of storage resources in a cellular manufacturing system. Storage resources are defined as space, equipment, fixturing and labor associated with the storage of intermediate materials in the workplace. Typically, these resources cannot be easily mobilized for relocation during the operation of a manufacturing system. Therefore, they must be allocated strategically during the design of a manufacturing system. A model of the materials handling interfaces between an automated guided vehicle system, a conveyor system and a series of automatic transfer lines in a cellular manufacturing system is formulated to support this decision process. The model can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of storage resources placed at different locations in a cellular manufacturing system. The model enables the decision maker to establish the locations in a manufacturing system where storage capacity can most effectively support a materials handling system