Optimization of Storage Location Assignment for Non-Traditional Layout Warehouses Based on the Firework Algorithm

Abstract

With the development of logistics, sustainable warehousing has become increasingly important. To promote the warehousing efficiency, non-traditional layout warehouses and storage location assignments have been proposed separately. However, they are rarely combined. Taking inspiration from the advantages of non-traditional layout warehouses and storage location assignments, a storage location assignment optimization algorithm for non-traditional layout warehouses is proposed to further improve the efficiency and sustainability of warehousing. By reducing the picking distance and picking time, this algorithm further boosts the warehouse efficiency and sustainability, saving energy in the process and resulting in positive effects on the environment and the economy. In the process of establishing the model, taking the order-picking efficiency and shelf stability as optimizing objectives, a multi-objective optimization model is derived. Then, a storage location assignment optimization algorithm based on the firework algorithm is developed using adaptive strategies for explosion and selection to enhance the convergence rate and optimization performance of the algorithm. With this approach, the storage location assignment optimization for non-traditional layout warehouses can be handled well. Finally, a set of comparative simulations is carried out with MATLAB, and the results show various positive effects for sustainable warehouse management, such as a higher order-picking efficiency, better shelf stability, time and resource savings, and so on.