LPN buffers
An LPN buffer is an area to temporarily store LPNs waiting for consumption by production or shipment to outbound. The LPN buffer is typically located nearby the WIP-IN location(s) or outbound area(s) to ensure smooth running operations by quick and easy access to the LPNs.
An LPN buffer is used to limit the risk of late availability of items. A risk of late availability can, for example, occur by an insecure time of delivery (for example when working with a mobile rack (where only one aisle is available at the same time) or a distant storage zone) and/or limited space at the destination location (WIP-IN, marshaling area,...).
 | An LPN buffer can only store uniform LPNs, no mixed or nested LPNs. |
| Pick tasks to WIP-IN or marshaling area, and replenishments to the LPN buffer can be initiated by PLE. See PLE support for LPN buffers. |
| An LPN buffer can also provide a pick zone, a pick location or another LPN buffer with inventory. |
If insufficient space is available in the LPN buffer, replenishment to and picking from the LPN buffer can be made 'pending' until space becomes available. Objective determines the priorities of the release of 'pending' replenishment tasks when space becomes available.
The release of the operation triggers the release of the pick tasks from the LPN buffer to WIP-IN, which in turn triggers the release of the replenishments to the LPN buffer. The system determines the most optimal replenishment sequence on the basis of the available space in the buffer and the released operations. If spaces become available on the LPN buffer, the PENDING replenishment tasks are released to continue filling the buffer. The target is to provide every unserviced demander with at least 1 LPN of every type when the order is started.