QUESTION $1$

$1\mathrm{.}1$ Automated storage systems help to regain control over WIP. Debate six reasons that

justify the installation of automated storage systems for work$-$in$-$process. $(12)$

$1\mathrm{.}2$ An AS$/$RS is used for work$-$in$-$process storage in a manufacturing facility. The AS$/$RS has

six aisles, each aisle being $200$ ft long and $30$ ft high. The horizontal and vertical speeds of the

S$/$R machine are $300$ ft$/$min and $30$ ft$/$min$,$ respectively. The S$/$R machine requires $15$ sec to

accomplish a pick and deposit operation. The number of single command cycles equals the

number of dual command cycles. If the requirement is that the AS$/$RS must have a throughput

rate of $250$ S$/$R transactions$/$hr during periods of peak activity, will the AS$/$RS satisfy this

requirement? If so$,$ what is the utilization of the AS$/$RS during peak hours? $(5)$