Layout-optimized sorting of goods with decentralized controlled conveying modules

Abstract

To increase flexibility in intralogistics, decentralized controlled material handling systems have been developed. We investigate the suitability of one of these systems, the FlexConveyor, for sorting of goods. The FlexConveyor is a material handling system built out of multiple, identical modules, each equipped with a controller. By communicating with each other, the modules are able to cooperate and to transport goods from any source to its specific destination. For sorting of goods, densely connected layouts promise high throughput while requiring little space. To compare different layouts, to identify bottlenecks and to draw conclusion about algorithm optimizations, we do a layout analysis partially based on methods coming from the network analysis of national transportation networks. The results of this layout analysis are compared to experimental results of a discrete event simulation model.