An expert system approach to the control of an automated storage/retrieval system
Richard A. Wysk, Richard J. Linn · 1987
An architecture for an Expert System based control system for the control of an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS) is created. The control system includes several unique elements, including the hierarchical partitioning of the control and decision tasks as well as the use of simulation to predict system performance. Strategic control policies and decisions are made utilizing a knowledge base of strategies that have been shown to perform well in practice. Tactical planning includes implementation of strategic plans during normal operation periods. The tactical planning module also includes a mechanism that detects input congestion and potential or existing system blockage. Alternative cart control scenarios are suggested by an expert system based tactical decision module. These control scenarios are then run through a short-run deterministic simulation in order to determine their merit. The control that best affects the system is implemented. The system was compared to the conventional system, and the experimental result has shown that the expert system based control appears to be an excellent control alternative for an AS/RS operation.