Multi-objective optimization for an RFID-enabled automated warehousing system

Over the last decade, it has been seen a rapid pace in research and development of RFID-based automatic storage and retrieval systems (AS/RSs) due to the usage of increasingly centralized distribution centers to warehouse merchandising products, which are sold using the online method. This paper presents a study of an RFID-enabled warehousing system as part of the research work for future generation warehouses design. To this aim, a multi-objective optimization model was developed and used for obtaining trade-off decisions by measuring four conflicted objectives: minimization of the total cost, maximization of capacity utilization, maximization of service level and minimization of travel distance in the warehouse. The study also supports design decisions in determining an optimum number of storage racks and collection points that need be established for the warehouse. To reveal the alternative Pareto-optimal solutions using the developed model, an integrated fuzzy solution approach was proposed. Subsequently, a decision making algorithm was used to select the best Pareto-optimal solution. A case-study was conducted to demonstrate the applicability of the developed model.