A multi-objective simulation-based optimization approach applied to material handling system

Abstract

Material handling is a vital element of industrial processes, which involves a variety of operations including the movement, storage, protection and control of materials and products throughout the processes of manufacturing and distribution. Having efficient material handling systems is of great importance to various industries for maintaining and facilitating a continuous flow of materials through the workplace and guaranteeing that required materials are available when needed. In this paper, we apply a multi-objective simulation-based optimization approach for solving a complex real-life multi-objective optimization problem. The results reveal that the simulation-based optimization approach could become an effective decision-making tool for solving multi-objective optimization problems in distribution and manufacturing industries.