Intelligent Material Handling Systems: Design of Integrated Stockless and Distribution System for the Healthcare Industry

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This award is in the joint ENG/CISE research thrust in Intelligent Material Handling Systems. Its objective is to develop an integrated procedure for the implementation of a stockless system by hospitals for a more cost efficient material management program. Given the scope of a stockless system, the research aims to integrate the entire distribution pipeline, from medical supply distributors to supply stations at Nurses Stations at hospitals and will address engineering and operational issues throughout the pipeline. The project will investigate organizational, operational, and engineering needs that must be instituted both at hospitals and supplier distribution centers to operate a successful stockless system. This includes hardware designs for material packaging and containerization at warehouses, material supply stations at Nurses Stations, and the use of such hardware for material dispensing to patients from Nurses Stations. Accurate information exchange is crucial to the success of a stockless system. The procedures also include material location, packaging/palletizing, and order retrieval. Therefore, the project will also address equipment requirements and develop techniques for warehouse layout and order picking which impact the distribution system.