Resource 

Definition

Object that performs a warehouse task.

In the MFS, a vehicle that transports an HU from one communication point (or storage bin) to another.

A resource moves to the pickup point in an empty state, takes on the load, and then discharges the latter at its destination. To reduce the number of empty travel paths, you must optimize the sequence of the orders.

 

EWM contains an interleaving strategy for stacker cranes with:

●      Just one load handling attachment

●      Putaway and removal bin at the same end of the aisle

EWM does not contain an empty-traveling-path strategy for distribution trolleys.

Use

To optimize the movements of stacker cranes from within EWM, the stacker cranes must be mapped in EWM as resources. Conveyor lines are not mapped as resources. It is not necessary to define a distribution trolley that the programmable logic controller optimizes using a separate order buffer as a resource in SAP EWM either. It is sufficient to define the communication points served by the distribution trolley.

You predefine resource types in Customizing (for example, STC). For more information, see the Implementation Guide (IMG) for EWM under Material Flow System (MFS) ® Master Data ® Define MFS Resources. You create resources (from STC1 to STCn) via the application menu. To do so, on the SAP Easy Access screen, choose Material Flow System (MFS) ® Maintain MFS Resource.

You need several resource types only if the resources to be controlled differ in respect of the following questions:

●      Is the interleaving strategy activated?

●      How large is the order buffer?

●      What is the step sequence for telegram communication with respect to an order?

If interleaving is activated, EWM assigns the resource alternately a putaway and a removal from storage in each case. Each putaway is followed by a removal from storage (where available and executable). Conversely, each removal from storage is followed by a putaway.

In the process, the system considers a pool of orders in each case. The basis for this is the latest start date/time (LSD/T). Orders whose LSD/T has been reached or will be reached within a definable period count as equal in terms of interleaving. The time interval is subdivided into a grid (for example into full hours). You define this grid in Customizing. For more information, see the IMG for EWM under Resource Management ® Define Modes.

For more information about the general use of resources in EWM, see Resource.