A modular simulation approach for automated material handling systems

Abstract

In this paper, the authors present a modular simulation approach for the evaluation of automated material handling systems (AMHSs). The approach involves the use of high level modularity so that alternative AMHS scenarios can be evaluated using identical or nearly identical source code. The approach is implemented using the AutoMod simulation platform, and the efficacy of the strategy is demonstrated through a case study with the United States Postal Service. Results indicate that the approach is viable and that it is of value for the evaluation of AMHS scenarios in general.