Modeling, simulation and optimization techniques are approved methods to support appropriate design and efficient operation of material handling systems. An increasing number of projects are run in this field, but there are also ongoing research activities focusing on e.g. systematic evaluation of material handling system design alternatives in order to derive design guidelines, development of effective strategies for dealing with component failure or process interruption, determination of implications from new approaches to material flow management and control on material handling system design and planning methodology, investigation of synergies from incorporating methodology and findings of other fields like knowledge management or visualization.

The intention of this track is to show the state-of-the-art and some applications of modeling, simulation and optimization in designing and operating material handling systems. This includes typical problems, methodological concepts and exemplary cases in simulating material handling processes or the functioning of handling robots, in modeling complexity of material handling systems, or in integrating material handling simulation into more holistic approaches of factory, logistics or supply chain simulation, etc. Both research-focused and application-oriented contributions are welcome.

Overall Objectives Of The Track

• To demonstrate the variety of problems and problem solving approaches related to modelling, simulation and optimization of material handling systems.
• To give space for presentation and discussion of new research approaches and findings and for identification of needs for further research in the field.
• To provide a platform for exchange and discussion on needs and chances, best practices and lessons learned in material handling system simulation.