Integrating Simulation Model as a Universal Approach to Continuous Planning of River Fleet Operation

Abstract

AbstractThe article describes the procedure for using simulation modeling for the operational planning of the river fleet operation. Simulation modeling is not currently used for river transport planning. Research tasks remain the main purpose of machine simulation. Existing technologies make it possible to build universal models, that is, they do not require reprogramming when changing the parameters of the transport system. Embedding decision-making models into a simulation model allows you to build a planning process as an algorithm for a discrete event-driven simulation model operation, in which decision-making moments are special events. These are the moments of the end of unloading, a sharp change in the parameters of transportation, etc. Special events are handled using combinatorial ship assignment models previously developed for ten-day planning. All other events are elements of transportation technology and must be foreseen in the implementation of the model. The use of simulation allows you to cover all levels of planning: from navigation to daily. In addition, planning models can be used to build training simulators to simulate the transportation process. The most obvious benefit of simulation-based planning is to improve planning adequacy. In particular, the error in determining the period of transportation without using simulation can reach 40%.KeywordsSimulation modelingPlanning of fleet operationRiver transportationContinuous planningShip assignmentDiscrete event modelingPlanning adequacySchedulingRunning operation model