Analytical model and swapping policy assessment of a vertical lift module – buffer integrated storage systemMarolt, Jakob (Avtor) Sgarbossa, Fabio (Avtor) Jimenez, Jesus A. (Avtor) Sharotry, Abhimanyu (Avtor) Lerher, Tone (Avtor) automated warehousesvertical lift moduletoteswappinganalytical and numerical modellingperformance evaluationTo meet the rising demands of global trade and e-commerce, efficient warehousing relies on inte-grated and cooperative material handling systems. This paper investigates the extension of VerticalLift Module (VLM) storage capability with a Buffer System and assesses the impact of this integra-tion on performance. We developed an analytical model to calculate the expected dual commandcycles, forming the basis for evaluating the VLM – Buffer integrated storage system’s performance.Our research emphasises minimising unnecessary swaps between the VLM and the Buffer Systemto enhance throughput performance. We introduce the Look Ahead Strategy (LAS) to minimiseinter-system swaps and develop a Binary Integer Program (BIP) to benchmark its performance. Theresults indicate that LAS performs on par with BIP, due to its ability to consider product popular-ity during the final selection of the outbound swapping tote. Through a comprehensive analysisof the analytical model with an empirical correction, utilising Pareto-based order sequences, theresults show deviations of less than 1% on average, affirming the analytical model’s accuracy. Ourresearch provides insights on using the VLM-Buffer integrated storage system, emphasising efficienttote swapping policies like LAS for enhanced warehouse operations, and allows managers to assesssystem performance through scenario-based analyses.20252024-10-11 14:43:15Članek v reviji90964UDK: 658.286:007COBISS_ID: 208594947DOI: 10.1080/00207543.2024.2396513ISSN pri članku: 1366-588Xsl