Support the Decision Processes in Management Through the Automatic Generation of Simulation Models of Warehouses
Purpose: The most important goal of the paper is to demonstrate the possibility of developing and implementing the methodology of automatic generation of warehouse models of various types with the use of ABS – agent-based simulation. Methodology: The highlights of the paper include management support through simple simu-lation modeling of storage and logistics systems using an agent-based approach, methodology of automatic generation of simulation models using Agent Based Simulation; Description of a new type of mobile, automatically controlled shelves. Simulation modeling is performed with the use of LogABS simulation software. The software engine/source code is written in the C ++ language. Findings: The described mechanism can be extended with the ability to generate other types of storage systems to enable comparisons of their usability for specific input and output streams. Practical implications: The paper describes the methodology, the use of which significantly reduces the time of decision-making in designing warehouse layouts. These decisions concern the organization of space and the choice of the storage technology. Using the described tools enables rapid verification of the given concept by automatically generating simulation models of warehouses, considering various storage technologies, including the drawer rack system. Originality/value: The publication proves that automating the simulation modeling processes of warehouses brings many benefits, allowing simulation technologies to become a tool avail-able to users with neither advanced programming skills nor previous experience in working with such programs.