The latest release, AnyLogic 8.9.5, brings several useful improvements to the Material Handling library, especially for working with robots and storage systems. Plus, logging into AnyLogic Cloud is now quicker and simpler with single sign-on (SSO). Here’s a closer look at what’s new.
Contents:
- Robot functionality improvements
- Storage system upgrades
- Easier AnyLogic Cloud access
- Upgrade to AnyLogic 8.9.5
Robot functionality improvements
Previously, robots with basic functionality were added to the Material Handling Library in AnyLogic 8.9.2. Now, they’ve been upgraded to handle more complex and realistic tasks in industrial facilities and warehouses.
SeizeRobot and ReleaseRobot blocks
Two new flowchart blocks—SeizeRobot and ReleaseRobot—along with the updated ProcessByRobot block featuring optional robot seizure and release, enable more precise modeling of multi-step item processing. They are useful when a single item goes through multiple steps. For example, preparing, transporting, waiting for robot switching tools, waiting for other machines, and more.
Instead of managing tasks with priorities or blocking queues to the robot, you can now seize the robot at the start of the process and release it only when all work on the item is complete.
In the ProcessByRobot block:
- Turn off SeizeRobot to continue using an already seized robot.
- Turn off ReleaseRobot to keep the robot for later steps.
Similar to how the SeizeCrane and ReleaseCrane blocks are used, this approach adds flexibility when the processing steps differ between items but the seize and release logic stays consistent.
Path-based robot movements
Some robotic tasks, such as welding, gluing, or carving, require the end effector to follow a specific path, often defined by the geometry of the processed item. New in 8.9.5, the ProcessByRobot block supports defining such paths for more accurate simulation and improved visualization.
This path can even be defined within the item itself, which is especially useful when each item has a different shape or orientation (e.g., welding different car models). Robots can now follow paths in items with different horizontal rotations. Note, however, that paths in vertically rotated objects are not currently supported.
New end effectors and custom tools
Built-in options are now available for two of the most commonly used end effectors: a welding gun and a vacuum gripper. These can be configured directly through the robot’s properties.
You can switch tools mid-process using the Change end effector option in the ProcessByRobot block, making it easy to simulate multifunctional robots. For more advanced scenarios, you can still define your own tools using shapes and position them via functions like getEndEffectorPosition().
Manual robot movement and animation control
In cases where a robot needs to move its end effector before being seized or while its associated item is processed elsewhere, you can now manually control it using the move() function in the robot’s markup element.
For more control over how agents visually follow the robot, use attachAgentAnimation() and detachAgentAnimation(). These tools are especially helpful when your model focuses more on robot behavior than on item processing steps.
Other improvements include:
- Prioritizing agents in the queue to the robot.
- Safe height adjustments when moving without an agent.
- Enhanced 3D animation of robots.
Storage system upgrades
The warehousing components in the Material Handling Library have also been expanded in AnyLogic 8.9.5. Let’s take a closer look at the most significant changes.
Automatic initial stock generation
Previously, populating shelves at model start required manual agents’ creation and their storage via code or flowcharts.
Now, you can define the initial stock directly in the StorageSystem block’s properties. This allows items to be automatically created and placed into storage at the beginning of the simulation, making setup much faster. These generated items are added to the agent population and can be referred to like any other agent.
Flexible rack placement options
In earlier versions, combining back-to-back racks with single-sided racks required using multiple storage elements. Now, a single Storage markup can handle this. When Rack placement is set to back-to-back, you can:
- Add single racks to one or both sides using the Place single racks at sides property.
- Define the side for a single rack when there’s an odd number of total racks using the Place odd single rack property.
If you’re using the graphical sizing mode Number of racks is calculated based on dimensions, a single rack will now be added automatically when you expand the storage area by dragging its side.
Retrieving from deep positions
In real-world scenarios, retrieving an item blocked by others often requires extra logic or effort. But in simulation, such low-level details may not be critical and can often be simplified.
In version 8.9.5, you can enable the Allow retrieving from deep position option, which permits retrieval of a blocked item while accounting for any necessary delays. This simplifies high-level warehouse modeling by removing the need to manually manage blocking agents. The delay depends on the item’s location in storage and accounts for the retrieval of obstructing ones.
Using already seized transporter or resource for storage
In industrial and warehousing processes, it’s common for the same resource assigned to an item during different processing stages to also handle its storage. For example, an operator might scan the SKU, package the item, and then place it into storage, or an AGV might transport the item between stations and eventually deliver it to the warehouse.
A new Use already seized unit option in the Store block allows you to continue using the currently seized transporter/resource without the need to release and reseize it. The block automatically manages the resource until the storing process is complete, avoiding unnecessary release-and-reseize steps. The transporter or resource is released automatically once the process ends.
Other improvements:
- A new Restrict aisle access property limits the number of transporters working in a single aisle. It is ideal for narrow-aisle warehouse scenarios.
- The StorageSystem block now includes a wide range of new functions to store, retrieve, and query items or the layout structure.
Easier Cloud login with single sign-on
Logging into AnyLogic Cloud is now more convenient. Simply click the login button in the AnyLogic ribbon. Your browser will open the Cloud login page, where you can authenticate using your usual credentials or through an OAuth provider (e.g., Google for Public Cloud users). Once logged in, you’re automatically authenticated in both the browser and the AnyLogic desktop tool.
Smarter moves, smoother flows
AnyLogic 8.9.5 makes robot and storage modeling easier and more flexible. It reduces setup time and gives you greater control over complex tasks. These changes help you build smarter, more realistic simulations. For the full list of updates, see the release notes.
Start today! Download AnyLogic 8.9.5 to get the latest advancements in robot and storage system modeling.
