Simulation and surface response methodology for simultaneous optimization of response variables: Case study in a warehousing process

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to present an applicable approach for simultaneous optimization of response variables in a warehouse process. Through simulation and the Response Surface Methodology, supported by information and communication technologies. The methodology applied to this problem considers the design of a simulation model, defined by discrete events to represent real-life activities in a warehouse process; this will allow to simulate different alternatives, in order to collect the results of the response variables. In addition, the Response Surface Methodology is applied to analyze the effects of the factors, and to define an empirical model able to appropriately describe the behavior of a multivariate system. A prediction model was established empirically through a case study; this scenario showed that the simultaneous optimization of the response variables is plausible.