Browsing by Author "Grosse Erdmann, Julian"

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    Development of an autonomous control system for target-optimised use of intralogistics means of transport in a production system for individualised products
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2020-03) Grosse Erdmann, Julian; Von Leipzig, Konrad; Hummel, Vera; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Industrial Engineering. Dept. of Industrial Engineering. .
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Rapidly changing market conditions and global competition result in higher expectations from customers, and in turn, require increased efficiencies from companies. This, coupled with the increasing complexity of logistics systems, requires innovative approaches concerning the organisation and control of these logistics systems. In scientific research, concepts of autonomously controlled logistics systems show a promising approach to meeting the increasing requirements for flexible and efficient order processing. In this context, this work aims to develop a system that is able to dynamically adjust order processing, and optimise intralogistics transportation with regard to various generic intralogistics target criteria in a flexible flow production. In this paper, the logistics system under consideration consists of various means of transport for autonomous decision-making and fulfilment of transport orders with defined source-sink relationships. The framework of this work is set by the development of a conceptual understanding of autonomous control and optimisation of several target figures in intralogistics. The two main target figures are costs and performance. The core idea of the system’s logic is to solve the problem of an order allocation to a specific means of transport by linking a Genetic Algorithm with a Multi-agent System. The Genetic Algorithm provides a global optimised solution to the problem, which is partially evaluated by a Multi-agent System, and then optimised based on local knowledge by monitoring and adjusting the appropriate decision variables in terms of problem-specific criteria. The developed model is based on the existing production system at the Werk 150, the factory of the ESB Business School on the Reutlingen University campus. The behaviour of the system is first examined with the help of a simulation study. The results obtained from the simulation are tested with common verification and validation techniques in production and logistics to confirm the credibility of the system. The work shows that the developed system leads to a higher logistical target achievement than conventional central planning and control concepts.