Please analyse the storage system and handling equipment for a new warehouse with a floor size of 70m x 140m x 11m. State any assumptions used and give reasons to support your answer.
a) Option A: For the storage system, a combination of pallet racking and shelving units could be used to efficiently store goods in varying sizes and quantities. This system allows for easy access and retrieval of items. For handling equipment, forklifts and pallet jacks would be essential for moving and organizing inventory within the warehouse.
b) Option B: A high-density storage system such as drive-in racking or push back racking could be utilized to maximize storage capacity in the limited floor space. This would require specialized handling equipment such as reach trucks or turret trucks to access and manage inventory within the deep storage system.
c) Option C: A mezzanine storage system could be installed to create additional levels for storage, utilizing the vertical space efficiently. Material lifts or conveyors would be essential for moving goods to and from the mezzanine levels.
d) Option D: An automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) could be implemented for both the storage system and handling equipment, utilizing robotic technology to efficiently manage inventory and optimize space utilization. This system would require significant investment but offer high levels of productivity and accuracy.