Showing papers on "Distribution center published in 2000"

Storage location assignment in a distribution center

Abstract: Considering a relay order pick system in a distribution center, proposes a heuristic method based on historical customers’ orders for assigning products into storage zones, and constructs a performance index for measuring the continuity of each order handled in the pick system. The objective is to balance workloads among all pickers so each one has almost the same load and the relay pick lane has a continuous flow. The proposed method is illustrated and verified to achieve the objective through empirical data and simulation experiments. Considering the fluctuation in order volume, presents two heuristic methods, also based on historical data, for adjusting the storage location so that the balanced workloads among all pickers and the continuity of the operation lane are not changed. These two methods are illustrated through actual data and verified by simulation experiments.

Loading optimization of palletized products on trucks

Abstract: In this paper we analyze the application of an optimization model to solve problems of arranging products (packed in boxes) on pallets, and arranging loaded pallets on trucks. Initially the model is applied to solve thousands of randomly generated experiments. Then, in order to assess the eAectiveness of the solutions in practice, the model is applied to two Brazilian case studies: a food company distribution center and a large wholesale distribution center. We also discuss the use of this approach for optimizing the sizes of packages, pallets and trucks. In particular, we analyze the performance of the Brazilian standard pallet (PBR), adopted by the Brazilian Association of Supermarkets (ABRAS) and recommended by the Brazilian Logistics Association (ASLOG), in comparison with other standard pallets. By examining not only the loading of products on pallets, but also the loading of pallets on trucks, we can obtain global utilization indices which are useful to evaluate the economical performance of unit load systems in the logistics chain of a company. ” 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.

Inventory replication based upon order fulfillment rates

Abstract: A load balancing technology segregates various inventory types (e.g., potatoes vs. milk, vs. pretzels, vs. tissue paper, etc.) based upon how frequently they are ordered in a distribution center. Inventory types that are ordered at the slowest rate are not “replicated” over multiple pods in the distribution center. Rather, they are constrained to reside at a single pod within the distribution center. Items that are ordered somewhat more frequently than those in the slowest group are replicated in multiple pods across the distribution center. In other words, these items are separately stocked at locations on more than one pod in the distribution center. This means that a container passing through the distribution center can obtain each of the items in the second group of item types at multiple pods in the distribution center. Thus, these items do not create a bottleneck in the order fulfillment process. Inventory types in a third group, the fastest movers, are segregated from items in the first two groups. They are stored in a separate type of pod that fulfills orders even faster than the other type of pods.

Order allocation to minimize container stops in a distribution center

Abstract: An order allocation algorithm maximizes throughput by reducing the number of stops that a container makes in the process of fulfilling a customer order. This is accomplished by first identifying a pod that stocks the largest number of different items in a customer order. Then, a second pod is identified that stocks the largest number of remaining items in the customer order. Ultimately, all items in the customer order are assigned a pod. The collection of pods defines a container path through the distribution center.

Method for delivering products for human consumption from a manufacturing center to passenger carrying vehicles

Abstract: A system for delivering products for human consumption from a manufacturing center to passenger carrying vehicles comprises packaging the products in a manufacturing center into carriers. Each carrier carrying a plurality of products. The carriers are delivered in bulk to a distribution center. At the distribution center predetermined numbers of carriers are loaded into respective containers for distribution to the vehicles. In transit in the vehicles the products are distributed to the passengers from the containers.

Building a demand-driven, vendor-managed supply chain.

Abstract: Vendor-managed inventory (VMI) software can help both stand-alone and IDS-based hospitals significantly reduce supply-chain management costs. The software tracks an organization's actual supply demand and generates automatic purchase orders, providing the supplies on an as-needed basis. As a result, a hospital's inventory-carrying and purchase-order processing costs may be reduced significantly. To make optimum use of the VMI software, IDSs and hospitals first need to ensure that their methods of collecting data on supply consumption are efficient and accurate. They then need to either establish a relationship with a distributor offering VMI capability or, if the organization is a large IDS with its own distribution center, acquire the software for internal use. A collaboration with a distributor requires establishing effective electronic communications for data sharing.

Map information distribution method and map information distribution system

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a map information distribution method and map information distribution system capable of efficiently distributing partial map information. SOLUTION: In a distribution center server, starting point information and designation information are received from an on-vehicle terminal to search a route connecting the starting point corresponding to the starting point information to the designation corresponding to the designation information, and the map information corresponding to the route is determined and distributed to the on-vehicle terminal.

Transportation arrangement system and transportation arrangement apparatus

Abstract: A transportation arrangement center for drawing up an operations plan is arranged between shippers and both physical distribution centers and transportation bases. The transportation arrangement center is provided with a master data managing unit for managing cargo item data, physical distribution center data, and vehicle and garage data concerning vehicles managed by the transportation bases and their garages and with a route making unit for making routes, taking in consideration also priority vehicles, based on the data of the cargoes, physical distribution centers, vehicles, and garages. The route making unit sets the efficient routes satisfying the transportation orders from the shippers and the restraint conditions on operation, minimizing the number of vehicles dispatched, and selecting the optimum transportation bases. This gives a transportation arrangement system capable of improving the physical distribution efficiency while keeping down the total number of vehicles dispatched.

Advertisement distribution realy system

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an advertisement distribution relay system capable of easily providing an advertisement for an area and a specific person desired by a customer anytime and anywhere. SOLUTION: In this advertisement distribution relay system, an advertisement distribution center 1, customer terminals 3 and advertisement display terminals 4 are connected through a communication network 5, data are exchanged between the customer terminals 3 and the advertisement distribution center 1, and advertisement information is distributed to the display terminals 4. Then, it is possible to easily offer the advertisement to the area and the specific person desired by the customer anytime and anywhere.

Distribution Resource Planning

Abstract: The purpose of a distribution system is to give maximum service to the customer. The structure of the distribution network is designed to achieve this end. If the management of the network is not properly executed, the end result can be poorer service than planned, costly transportation expenses, high levels of inventory, conflicts between network levels, or a combination of any of the above. Prior to implementation of the dependent demand concepts of MRP, many distribution operations were based on reorder point replenishment systems. Products would be ‘pulled’ from supplying centers when the inventory dropped to the reorder point. The reorder point system assumed that the material is available at the supplying center location. If the demand of a single stocking location calls for an even continuous rate, the reorder point system will work. However, if there are multiple stocking locations, each having even, continuous demand, the combination of demands will be lumpy requirements for the supplying facility.

Electronic commerce enabled delivery system and method

Abstract: A system for distributing groceries to customers' homes is described. As part of the system, a distribution center stores the groceries. A delivery system, having a number of vehicles, delivers the groceries from the distribution center to the customers' homes. A computer system coordinates the distribution center and the delivery system so that, during normal operation of the system, customers can reserve delivery time windows on the same day orders are received by the computer system. Additionally, the computer guarantees the groceries ordered by the customers will arrive at their homes during the reserved delivery time windows. The computer can make this guarantee using inventory information about the groceries in the distribution center. Additionally, the computer can use information about available distribution resources, and information about available delivery resources.

Method and apparatus for on-line prescription ordering

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for on-line prescription ordering are described. A prescription order is placed via a World Wide Web site and stored in a database. A server device periodically searches the database for new prescription orders. New prescription orders are routed to a distribution center for processing. The appropriate medical data (e.g., age, medical condition) is also routed to the distribution center for use in filling the prescription. Insurance information is collected and processed, if necessary. In one embodiment, in certain situations, a “pre-fill” order is sent to the distribution center to cause the distribution center to determine the actual medication to be dispensed, the cost covered by the insurance and other prescription processing to occur. In response to a user making financial arrangements (e.g., providing a credit card number) to cover any costs not covered by the insurance the prescription is filled and is shipped to the appropriate individual.

Managing a Single Warehouse, Multiple Retailer Distribution Center

Abstract: To distribute products in a city with many small retailers, a single warehouse/multiple retailer (SWMR) system is commonly used. Although there are many studies of such systems, none examines the effects of the surrounding environment. This article focuses on how the environment of an SWMR system affects the warehouse location, inventory rule, order size, and vehicle-scheduling rule.

Logistics Distribution Center Allocation Model

Abstract: The article analyseis the relation of stock, transport, and Distribution center in the system of logistics. By means of optimization method, the mathematical model of logistics Distribution center allocation is put forward. It is a mixed integer programming model.The algorithm which refers to the benders , s method is given. Limited quantity of stipulations ensures the astringency of the algorithm.The model should be practical because of variety of reality facts have been considered.

Message distribution center, advertiser terminal and method for distributing message

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a message distribution system capable of programming suited to a present situation. SOLUTION: A management center 2 registers contents received from a contents holder server 1 to a contents database. Furthermore, the center 2 receives the request of contents from a viewing device 3. Then, request situation information showing a request situation to respective contents is provided to the advertiser terminal 4 of the advertiser and a purchasing application for an advertising frame. The center 2 decides the purchaser of the advertising frame and the price of the advertising frame by auction concerning the respective advertising frame and distributes the contents and advertising data to the device 3 through a sending device 6.

Electronic broker impacts on the value of postponement

Abstract: Global and electronic markets are increasingly forcing manufacturing enterprises to become more competitive. As a result, many manufacturing enterprises are seeking to manage their supply chains more effectively. Product differentiation timing is one important factor in supply chain management. Under an early product differentiation process, finished products are manufactured and stored in a distribution center until delivery. Under a delayed product differentiation process, partially completed product components are manufactured and stored in a distribution center; later, based on demand information, finished products are completed from the product components. The difference in value between early product differentiation and delayed product differentiation is the value of postponement. Prior research has analytically shown that the value of postponement is affected by information precision in demand forecasts. We investigate whether adding a market-making electronic broker to a supply chain increases the value of postponement. We hypothesize that it may do so by providing greater accuracy in demand forecasting. We test this relationship by comparing the results of several agent-based simulations that vary between early and late differentiation strategies and the use of an electronic broker.

Distribution center management system

Abstract: In one aspect, the invention is directed to a method for picking a product from a reserve area in a distribution center. One embodiment includes designating a zone in distribution center as a reserve zone and designating products as pick from reserve products. The method also includes determining whether an item in the distribution center is designated as a pick from reserve product. In another aspect, the invention is directed to a distribution center management system. The distribution center management system includes a configuration module, a product designation module, an inventory module, an identification module and an assigning module. The configuration module designates a zone in a distribution center to be a reserve zone. The product designation module designates products as pick from reserve products. The inventory module catalogs received items. The identification module determines whether an item is a pick from reserve product. The retrieving module retrieves pick from reserve products from reserve zones. In one embodiment, the retrieving module includes a locator that locates the reserve zone in which an item is stored. A worker is then directed to the located reserve zone. In another aspect, the invention is directed to a computer-aided method for distributing items requiring a value added service in a distribution center. A zone within the distribution center is designated as a zone for providing the value added service. Inventory items required for providing the value added service are identified. Pickers are directed to pick these inventory items. These picked inventory items are collected in the designated zone, where the value added service is provided using the collected items. The finished item is shipped after the value added service has been completed. In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for displaying distribution center management system information on a graphical display. This graphical display provides a system operator with an overview of the distribution center's status by simultaneously displaying a plurality subwindows of information.

Delivery system by local distribution center

Abstract: PURPOSE: A distribution system based on local physical distribution centers is provided to reduce a distributing time by connecting central networks with networks of the local physical distribution centers to make out invoices, to exactly transmit products ordered by customers, and to prevent losses of the products by making manufacturing companies directly transmit the products to the local physical distribution centers CONSTITUTION: A distribution system based on local physical distribution centers makes manufacturing companies directly transmit products to the local physical distribution centers, to maintain appropriate stockpiles of the products in the local physical distribution centers The distribution system directly transmits the products to orderers in the local physical distribution centers The system links central networks of electronic transactions/mail orders operating companies with networks of the local physical distribution centers The system automatically displays results whether the invoices are made out, whether the products are transmitted by confirming the invoices, and whether the transmissions for the products are completed on the central networks

Delivering method and physical distribution center applying the same

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a delivering method for extremely reducing physical distribution cost by efficiently performing a shipping work and a physical distribution center applying the method. SOLUTION: This delivering method for delivering products shipped from a plurality of working places from the physical distribution center corresponding to a plurality of shipping instructions has a process for preparing stock information by collecting single product information on a product from the plurality of working places, a process for dividing contents of the plurality of shipping instructions into 'stock products', 'stock and working products' and 'working products' based on the stock information, a process for collecting time of delivery information from the plurality of working places for the division of 'stock and working products' and 'working products', a process for setting a shipment possible date for the plurality of shipment instructions based on the collected time of delivery information, a process for making a product shipped on the shipment possible date as a shipping object on that day as much as possible and a process for recognizing shipping amount classified by regions on the shipment possible date, increasing cargo in scale as much as possible and selecting a proper shipping means.

The customer to customer type e-business system utilizing the vast-areal circulation network

Abstract: PURPOSE: An electronic commerce system between consumers using great-sphere distribution networks is to provide an electronic commerce system by a digital method using a satellite. CONSTITUTION: A host main center(10) connected to a server(20) comprises a receiving unit to receive data from a transmitting unit and a satellite(70) and a communication unit to execute communication with various cooperative companies, such as a communication company(210), a physical distribution center(220), a producer(230), a financial transaction intermediation institute(240) and a quality appraisal institute(250). Relatedly connected with the primary distribution chain stores(110) of a distribution network(30) to exchange information mutually, the host main center carries out the overall management of the system. The server(20) comprises a cyber department store(21) which is supplied goods from the physical distribution center(220) and the producer(230) and displays goods in the three-dimensional form like a real department store. A physical distribution network(40) is provided with a receiving unit to receive data from the satellite(70).

Large capacity secure information distribution system based on broadcasting

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To execute security keeping, throughput guarantee and distribution guarantee in information distribution on the assumption of large capacity distribution and multi-spot communication, for example. SOLUTION: This information distribution system has a contents distribution network 3 composed of the down link of comparatively large transmission capacity provided with a broadcasting function and the up link of comparatively small transmission capacity for each terminal to individually communicate with a server, a secure network 4 capable of two-way communication, a distribution center 6 and a station 2. Then, the confirmation of distribution completion or retransmission request is transmitted/received while being transmitted collectively in a distribution package.

Transportation issues for deciding when to diploid a new distribution center

Abstract: This work analyses the problem of defining when to diploid a new distribution center. The decision model considers the usual logistic cost drivers such as shipping, inventory, infrastructure and administration, focusing in the first one. The shipping cost driver is determined by the client coverage of the centers, which is calculated using a first order condition heuristic that takes into account the facilies' internal congestion. The model is applied to a company that operating in Santiago de Chile which faces a highly seasonal demand. We show that by defining the coverage in a dynamic fashion that depends on the demand, it is possible to postpone the deployment of a new center so the company can save an estimate of 2 percent of the delivery cost.

Predicted traffic condition information distribution method, device and record medium recording predicted traffic condition information distribution program

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To distribute traffic condition information with a small data amount and short processing time and without special equipment SOLUTION: First, the request of a user is interpreted (step 101) The user sends a road to recognize the traffic condition information and the time requiring predicted information, etc, to a predicted traffic condition distribution center by using a telephone, a portable terminal or a personal computer or the like Then, data (distribution predicted data) corresponding to the decided information are predicted (step 102) Then, the distribution predicted data are converted so as to receive the information in a terminal owned by the user (step 103) Finally, the converted distribution predicted data are distributed to the user (step 104)

An Aggressive Lift Training Program at a Grocery Distribution Center Yields Positive Results

Abstract: A highly customized lift training program, the Ergonomic Warehouse & Distribution Center Program, based on ergonomic principles and carried out at a large distribution center of a major retail organization as part of a broader safety program, yielded significant reductions in the center's accident frequency rate, especially with respect to musculoskeletal disorders. The program's positive results are attributed to its highly customized structure in both its content and in the participation of workers, supervisors, and safety department personnel.

one-stop shopping system

Abstract: PURPOSE: A one stop shopping system is provided to sell all kinds of goods from agricultural and aquatic products to cars as well as to reserve competitive power by achieving the lowest selling through a direct transaction with producers CONSTITUTION: A management center(10) receives goods orders through internet homepages, e-mails or telephones from customers(12) and directs goods producers(14) to ship the ordered goods Each goods producer(14) confirms which district has a physical distribution center(160) corresponding to a large unit of an administrative district of each associated customer(12) and carries out distribution preparation The goods producers(14) directed by the management center(10) transports their goods by the corresponding physical distribution centers(160) The physical distribution centers(160) confirms the goods delivered from the goods producers(14) and transports the goods to the customers(12) in a logistic method

Information distribution system and distribution method

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an information distribution system that can efficiently realize immediate distribution of a nonvoice call to a user or the like and suppress the load on a network to a required minimum value. SOLUTION: The information distribution system, that distributes a storage type non-voice call as a mobile object communication service is provided with distribution centers 1 for a non-voice call interconnected through a network with each other and subscriber databases (HLR) 6, that manage information of mobile terminals 7. On the opportunity of a distribution failure of a non-voice call, the distribution center 1 informs the HLR6 about it via the network (1) and the HLR6 registers the noticed information (2). When the HLR6 detects an incoming call permission state of a mobile object terminal 7 corresponding to the registered information, the HLR6 informs the distribution center 1 about it and executes re-distribution of the non-voice call of which the distribution center 1 informs. COPYRIGHT: (C)2002,JPO

Method, system, and device for data distribution, and recording medium with program recorded therein

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a data distribution system which speedily and accurately grasp user's tastes and distributes information matching them. SOLUTION: Advertisement data are sent from an upload terminal 11 to a distribution center 15 so that the data are registered for advertisement distribution service. The contents of user's operation in regard to the advertisement data distributed to a portable terminal 14 are reported from the portable terminal 14 to the distribution center 15 through a communication network 16. The distribution center 15 once receiving the report from the portable terminal 14 uses the contents of the operation included in the report to select advertisement data to be distributed to the portable terminal 14 thereafter. Then the distribution center 15 distributes the selected advertisement data to the portable terminal 14. COPYRIGHT: (C)2002,JPO

Travel information distribution system

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain a travel information distribution system by which suitable information is easily acquired by using a radio terminal on a place where a traveler is staying. SOLUTION: Before going to travels, a user 102 of a radio terminal 101 visits a travel agency 103 who prepares a schedule table 141 and registers the telephone number of the terminal 101 in a telephone number data base 144. The agency 103 sends these data to a distribution center 107. The center 107 can receive the information of respective places from 1st and 2nd information providers 108, 109 and stores the received information in a data base 152. When the travel is started, a data transmission part 158 reads out corresponding data from the data base 152 at time or on a place requiring the information on the basis of a distribution schedule table 151 and distributes the read data to the user 102. COPYRIGHT: (C)2001,JPO