Calculating Look-Ahead

System Throughput

Our use case system will process 2000 bins/hour across 10 ports:

• Ports 1–4: 250 bins/hour each (1000 total, Category 1).
• Ports 5–6: 200 bins/hour each (400 total, Category 2).
• Ports 7–10: 150 bins/hour each (600 total, Category 3).

30-Minute Look-Ahead Calculation

• Total tasks needed: 2000 bins/hour × 0.5 hour = 1000 tasks in the system.
• Category 1: 1000 bins/hour × 0.5 hour = 500 tasks.
• Category 2: 400 bins/hour × 0.5 hour = 200 tasks.
• Category 3: 600 bins/hour × 0.5 hour = 300 tasks.

Application

• Ensure each category has the correct number of tasks in the system to avoid starving ports and causing picker wait times.
• Do not overload the system with several hours’ worth of work; feed tasks in a steady, continuous stream.

Best Practices

• Monitor wait times and adjust look ahead as needed (20–40 minutes is typical; avoid dropping below 15 minutes).
• Add new tasks as existing ones are completed to maintain a steady buffer.
• Avoid large “waves” of work that cause spikes in wait times; aim for consistent task flow.
• Following these guidelines ensures low, consistent wait times and maximizes system efficiency.