Computer Aided Design of Unit Loads: A Design and Selection Procedure

Abstract

The unit load design problem includes the selection of the best pallet or container size, the best pallet or container layout, and the best number of parta per pallet or container. Three different approaches to solve the unit load design problem are identified in this paper and a new procedure is proposed: Computer Aided Design of Unit Loads (CADUL I). Using CADUL I, unit loads are designed considering system constraints (i.e., rack opening dimensions, aisle width, trailer-truck container dimensions, product crushability constraints, material handling equipment stacking capability and weight capacity) and a cost function that includes handling, storage, transportation, and pallet or container costs. An example is used to illustrate how CADUL I works and how these approaches to unit load design perform sensitivity analysis to validate the results obtained. © 1989.