SIMULATION OF COMMISSIONING IN WAREHOUSE

Abstract

To understand the dynamic behaviour of the systems and verify implemented designs or processes in a particular time frame the use of simulation studies is necessary. Although the amount of time and data used to produce such studies are substantial, the 3D representation of the system produces a fuller understanding of system behaviour. This paper describes the use of 3D animation to visualize workflows in a warehouse using standard techniques within Web browsers or standalone applications. The success of a 3D simulation depends on object behaviour and the level of interaction. Based on an X3D node concept, object-oriented features, and an event-driven approach, the application is well-suited to the virtual environment. XML is used as the interface definition of nodes and the parameters of their behaviour characteristics. Automated nodes and code generation of a dynamic XML Schema simplify the implementation. The study of a specific application enables us to highlight the possibilities of the X3D language to model, to visualize, and to change interactive parameters for actions in the warehouse-commissioning process. Key features of X3D are revealed, and new approaches are proposed to achieve a better realistic behaviour inside the virtual warehouse. The information from simulations in the virtual warehouse is directly usable to optimize performance and further operational planning in the warehouse.