Net-WMS - virtual reality and optimisation techniques for warehouse management systems

Brussels, 20 October 2006

The Net-WMS project, managed by ERCIM, had its kick-off last month in Sophia Antipolis, France. Its objective is to integrate virtual reality and optimisation techniques in a new generation of Networked businesses in Warehouse Management Systems under constraints.

Warehouse Management System (WMS) mission is evolving from controlling goods movement and storage to light manufacturing, transportation and order management. Demands from manufacturer end users are asking for WMS solution with decision-making applications and networked environment.

The Net-WMS project proposes a software solution enabling the expected new generation of Networked businesses WMS. Net-WMS will handle networked communication and co-operation processes through the integration of decision-making technologies, generic 3D placement primitives, virtual reality for 3D visualisation, interactivity to design packing models, knowledge modelling.

Net-WMS generated knowledge will be shared in networked warehouses, thanks to its interoperability and user friendly interface designed for plant level technician users. Net-WMS optimisation developments will also be made available for the whole community through the enhancement of the Choco open-source system. The achieved optimisation technologies will enable 20% saving for packaging costs.

The project gathers nine European organisations having a recognised expertise in logistical and packing problems as well as software development in supply chain optimisation.

Project management: ERCIM
Scientific coordination: INRIA
Technical management: KLS-Optim