Development of a simulation modeling system for port terminal operations

Abstract

Simulation modeling is a practical tool for port infrastructure engine- ers that enables the optimization of operational processes, cost reduction, and increased throughput capacity of ports and terminals. Through modeling, system performance can be studied in a risk-free digital environment where each element ‒ from berths to handling equipment ‒ is reproduced as close to real conditions as possible. The software allows the creation of a model that accounts for the specific features of container, liquid bulk, and dry bulk terminals, including:

• infrastructure (berths, warehouses, storage tanks);


• cargo flow logistics (land, rail, and water transport);


• equipment operation (gantry cranes, forklifts, transport systems);


• human factors (shift schedules, productivity, workforce availability);


• environmental aspects (noise and ecological impact).

Using the model, engineers can identify bottlenecks and test alternative scenarios without interfering with real-world operations. For example:

• Does the efficiency of the port depend on the throughput of forklifts or the storage tank capacity?

What are the implications of increasing the number of berthing places?

• How will changes to gantry crane schedules affect productivity?


• Is there a need to reconfigure internal logistics or modify cargo handling algorithms?

Engineering advantages of using modern simulation software include:

• the ability to perform detailed statistical analysis of terminal operations;


• creation of visualized 2D and 3D models for clear demonstration;
  
  • evaluation of new project efficiency before implementation;
  
  
  • testing of stress loads and emergency scenarios;
  
  
  • support for data-driven technical decisions on infrastructure and
  
  

The software already includes specialized libraries for the port sector, with modeling tools for:

• container terminals;


• liquid and dry bulk cargo handling;


• LNG terminals;


• multimodal transport (rail and road libraries).

The developed simulation model is not just a visualization but a functional engineering tool for designing, optimizing, and managing port operations. It helps reduce downtime, minimize operational costs, and increase infrastructure utilization efficiency.