Forecast Bin Preparation

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This functionality is supported by both the Task Interface and the Bin Interface.

Overview

The forecasting bin functionality allows the WMS to request low-priority bin preparation using the forecast feature. The forecast feature enhances existing capabilities without changing core concepts such as preparation queues or task groups. It enables low-priority bin preparation during periods of available system capacity, avoiding the use of Prepare positions. Forecast bins are typically moved to higher levels based on available digging capacity.

How To Use The Forecast Feature

Enabling Forecast Mode

• Use the forecastbin method to set a bin's mode to FORECAST. This behaves like GRID mode but prioritizes moving bins to upper levels when digging capacity is available.
• Ensure the request specifies the bin_id and includes the FORECAST mode parameter.

Managing Forecast Bins

• Forecast bins are prepared automatically when the system has available capacity, operating at the lowest priority.
• Monitor bin status via the Log Publisher module, which provides real-time updates on bin position and mode.
• To cancel forecasting, use the cancelforecastbin method with the appropriate bin_id.

Transition Conditions

A bin will automatically exit FORECAST mode if any of the following occur:

• It is moved to another mode (e.g. placed into a port).
• It is prepared through the normal bin/task preparation process.
• The cancelforecastbin method is invoked.

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Bins are never marked as “finished forecast prepared.” Their current position and mode remain continuously available via the Log Publisher module.

Best Practices And Guidelines

• Limit forecasting to 25% of the total bins in the system to maintain efficiency.
• When calculating the maximum, include all preparation requests (forecasting, task groups, preparation queue, etc.).
• Forecast only bins that are expected to be needed within the next 24 hours to optimize resource usage.
• Excessive forecasting may disrupt normal digging operations (Pareto), as forecast bins can rise and displace or bury other bins.

Use Cases

eCommerce Discount Campaign

If an e-commerce operation knows in advance that a 50% discount campaign will start over the weekend, the WMS can forecast bins contain discounted SKUs before the campaign begins and dig them up in advance to optimize picking performance in the next morning.

Heavy Inventory Weekend

For a heavy inventory weekend, the WMS can forecast bins with specific content codes on Friday night and dig them up in advance, ensuring they are immediately accessible the next morning without waiting for digging.