Abstract

LE ROUX, G.J.  and  VISAGIE, S.E.. A multi-objective approach to the assignment of stock keeping units to unidirectional picking lines. S. Afr. J. Ind. Eng. [online]. 2017, vol.28, n.1, pp.190-209. ISSN 2224-7890.  http://dx.doi.org/10.7166/28-1-1615.

An order picking system in a distribution centre consisting of parallel unidirectional picking lines is considered. The objectives are to minimise the walking distance of the pickers, the largest volume of stock on a picking line over all picking lines, the number of small packages, and the total penalty incurred for late distributions. The problem is formulated as a multi-objective multiple knapsack problem that is not solvable in a realistic time. Population-based algorithms, including the artificial bee colony algorithm and the genetic algorithm, are also implemented. The results obtained from all algorithms indicate a substantial improvement on all objectives relative to historical assignments. The genetic algorithm delivers the best performance.

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