An expert system framework for automated storage and retrieval system control

Abstract Expert systems (ESs) have demonstrated an ability to solve difficult problems of a specific domain and achieve quality performance. Although ESs originated in medical diagnosis and chemical analysis, the technology has been applied in many different engineering problems. In this paper, an expert system framework for the control of an automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) is presented. The expert system based control uses a hierarchical control structure which partitions the AS/RS control decision process into strategic, tactical, and process control levels, and employs a multipass simulation technique to tactically adapt control policies to system changes. The initial results have demonstrated the ability of the system to include control flexibility to adapt the system to fluctuations in demand and maintain quality performance.