CPU-Based Layout Design for Picker-to-Parts Pallet Warehouses

TL;DR

This paper proposes a CPU-inspired warehouse layout design that partitions space into specialized zones, significantly improving throughput and reducing labor compared to traditional layouts.

Contribution

It introduces a novel CPU-inspired layout approach for picker-to-parts warehouses, validated through simulation, offering a new method to optimize warehouse efficiency.

Findings

Significant reduction in throughput time.

Lower labor requirements.

Improved efficiency over traditional layouts.

Abstract

Picker-to-parts pallet warehouses often face inefficiencies due to conventional layouts causing excessive travel distances and high labor requirements. This study introduces a novel layout design inspired by CPU architecture, partitioning warehouse space into specialized zones, namely Performance (P), Efficiency (E), and Shared (S). Discrete-event simulation is used to evaluate this design against traditional rectangular (random and ABC storage) and Flying-V layouts. Results demonstrate significant improvements in throughput time and reduced labor requirements, highlighting the potential for CPU-based layouts in optimizing warehouse operations.