Terminal Operations Research Articles

Analysis and simulation of the operational capacity of a rail motorway terminal

This work aims to analyze the factors that influence the operational time at a railway-motorway intermodal terminal, with a specific focus on the loading and unloading of trains with semi-trailers. This operation is commonly referred to as a rail motorway intermodal process. The terminal under analysis is the Zaragoza-PLAZA intermodal terminal, located in Zaragoza, Spain. Using AnyLogic® PLE, a discrete event and block-based logic simulation software, a model is developed to realistically simulate the terminal's operations, offering potential improvements. The model enables observation of the terminal's behavior by modifying certain parameters. The results obtained can be directly applied to the existing terminal for performance enhancements. Finally, a sensitivity analysis of the model is conducted, allowing us to assess how various factors influence the terminal's operations.

Investigation of some issues of automation of elements of terminal complexes for transshipment of large-capacity containers

The topic of the work is the study of the reasons for increasing the efficiency of the use of marine container transportation in the entire supply chain. It is noted that the increase in their efficiency is explained by the possibility of transporting various types of cargo, the speed of handling vehicles, as well as the compactness of storage and safety of cargo. The problem of increasing ship capacity on the terms of shipping companies, which currently exists and is being solved by container terminal operators, has been formulated, which allows minimizing the time of ships parking in the port for processing, which in turn can be achieved by increasing the capacity of ships. Attention is drawn to the fact that reducing costs by increasing the efficiency of lifting and transport equipment stimulates investments in automation systems for almost all terminal operations, and in particular in lifting and transport equipment systems. It is emphasized that the automation process of container terminals differs depending on the task at hand (a new project is being considered or work is being carried out to automate an existing terminal). The implementation of automation at existing terminals is a more difficult task due to the problems of compatibility with the types of activities performed and resistance to ongoing changes, which primarily involve systematic and repetitive technological processes that can be programmed. Attention is drawn to the fact that container terminals use the latest operating systems to control and optimize the movement of containers inside the warehouse area (in particular, they are used at terminals where gantry cranes on a pneumatic (RTG) and on a rail (RMG) are used), and it is also emphasized that when working with RTG technology gantry cranes on a pneumatic vehicle are equipped with sensors connected to satellite positioning systems, which are located on the terminal area and on wheeled carts and are brought to the place of cargo operation by signals from the control room, at the same time, the dock operator controls only when lowering or lifting the container. Such information systems are also used on terminals operating using RMG technology. It is noted that automation of berthing container cranes is currently under development, since the complexity of its implementation lies in the fact that during pitching the vessel has a roll and a deflector, therefore, when moving it, it is difficult to determine the exact location of the container and the alignment of the spreader horizon with the container horizon, as a result, the guidance process? It requires additional time, which leads to a decrease in work productivity.

Hierarchy and mobility of Latin America and Caribbean container ports

Research on port hierarchies within a maritime region is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of seaborne trade and the broader trends within the maritime sector and related supply chains. This study investigates the evolution of the Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) container ports and regional sub-systems from 2000 to 2022, analyzing traffic dynamics, shifts in port throughput rankings, and market concentration trends in and among the different coastal regions. Conceptually, this analysis benefits from the notion of evolutionary phases, revealing the stages of a port system's development. Methodologically, 49 LAC ports of international interest are categorized into different coastal regions and tiers based on throughput sizes. Various metrics, including the Gini coefficient, Lorenz curve, Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI), and Kendall Tau (τ), assess port hierarchy and related mobility since 2000. The observed shifts in the hierarchy and market structures, coupled with the fluctuating positions of critical ports, underscore the transition that LAC container ports dynamics experienced in the 21st century. Following a particularly dynamic and volatile evolution observed in the 2000s, the financial crisis of 2008/09 was a critical juncture leading to the transition of the LAC port dynamics from the ‘emerging’ to the ‘maturity’ phase. On the contrary, the pandemic (2019) has not affected the pre-existing hierarchy or the moderate market concentration that was already in progress. The LAC region comprises port sub-systems (coastal ranges) subjected to different tendencies towards (de)concentration, yet mobility in port rankings within each sub-system decreases. The study also reveals the coexistence of this transition with a structural transformation of port governance structures, i.e., granting of concessions of operations to third parties. In 20 of these ports and the above-average mobility of ports are operated by Global Terminal Operators (GTOs), and calls for further research on the (non) causality of these phenomena.

The economic and environmental viability of green and autonomous ships in inland shipping ecosystems

Abstract This paper explores the potential of using green, autonomous ships in revitalising inland shipping in Europe against the backdrop of declining market share and the dominance of “economy-of-scale” in waterborne freight transportation. It assesses the economic and environmental viability of converting freight from road- to waterborne modalities in broader business ecosystems, specifically along the Rotterdam-Ghent corridor. The analysis leverages operational and commercial insights from logistics firms, ports and terminal operators, combined with data on European goods flows by road, and accounts for operational, financial and environmental variables including realistic scenario building and ecosystem implications. Findings indicate that inland shipping in general and green, autonomous shipping in particular offer both economically and environmentally viable alternatives to road transport. The study calls for further research into green, autonomous ships from an ecosystem perspective as a potential solution to current challenges in sustainable freight transportation.

A Conceptual Model for Automation of Small Ports

Abstract For large ports and terminals, the loading and discharge operations have to a great extent been automated already. However, for the vast number of small ports, for instance all Norwegian ports, this large-scale automation is not possible due to the small size of the ports compared to the cost of introducing full automation. Still, these small ports are important logistics hubs in the transport system. They facilitate the shift from congested roads to the sea by allowing the goods to arrive closer to the final destination by using smaller, possibly autonomous, vessels. However, this puts pressure on the ports to facilitate reduced laytime in the port, to increase the port efficiency and to improve interoperability towards hinterland systems and terminals. For small ports, this means that manual and automated work processes need to exist side by side, and that it will be important to get an overview of which processes to automate and which will remain manual, in addition to the handling of the hand-over between humans and automation. This paper describes a conceptual model that can be used by small ports as a starting point on their way to introduce automation of their services supporting the cargo flow through the port. The model includes a description of port functions, tasks and responsibilities and use the concept of operational envelope to define the overall capabilities of the system, including both automation and human. This will be the starting point for how to structure the description of an operation centre that monitor and control the maritime terminal operations. The starting point for this work is a use case analysis performed in some small ports in Norway, and their need to optimize the utilization of their assets. The work is done as part of the AutoPort project which is a research project funded by the Norwegian Research Council (project number 337211). The goal of this work is to describe a methodology on how to identify the interface between automation and human operators when it comes to small ports and the movement of cargo through its terminals, and by this give a description on how different levels of automation can be implemented. The methodology consists of several steps, including definition of the context (big picture of the use case, actors and their roles, and communication), the scenario (port activities and processes), and the use cases including the control tasks performed by the automated systems.

광양항 항만배후단지 운영성과와 활성화방안 연구

Purpose: This study analyzes the supply plans and performance of the Gwangyang Port hinterland, and proposes activation strategies based on these findings. Research design, data, and methodology: A review of previous research was conducted to examine the definitions, functional changes, types, and designation criteria of port hinterlands. The current supply plans and development status of the Gwangyang Port hinterland were also analyzed. Results: The results show that while the volume of cargo in the hinterland is increasing, its contribution to the total volume of port cargo remains stagnant. Key issues identified include terminal operator productivity, lack of shipping routes, and excessive competition among logistics companies. Conclusions: The study proposes several activation strategies: improving terminal operator efficiency, enhancing support for high-value-added companies, promoting specialized hinterland areas for lifestyle logistics services, and strengthening the role of the Yeosu Gwangyang Port Authority.

Connectivity Analysis of Non-Container Ports at PT Pelindo Multi Terminal Using SNA and GIS / Connectivity Analysis of Non-Container Ports at PT Pelindo Multi Terminal Using SNA and GIS

This study aims to analyze the connectivity of non-containerized ports, particularly in the sub-commodity of vegetable/animal oils and fats, within the operational area of PT Pelindo Multi Terminal. Using Social Network Analysis (SNA) and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques, this study builds a network based on nodes (ports) and assesses inter-node connections with metrics such as degree centrality, betweenness centrality, and hub index. Gephi application was used for the calculation of network metrics, while QGIS visualized the shipping routes. The research revealed that high traffic ports such as Belawan, Dumai, and Tanjung Priok play a crucial role in the network. The findings support recommendations for infrastructure development and implementation of an integrated Terminal Operations System (TOS) to improve logistics efficiency.

Optimization berth allocation in container terminals: A Pyomo and Google Colab approach

Efficient berth allocation profoundly influences container terminal operations, affecting vessel waiting and turnaround times, and overall performance. This study presents a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model addressing the Berth Allocation Problem (BAP) in a Malaysian container port. By incorporating the Pyomo optimization library and CBC (Coin-or Branch and Cut) solver in Google Colab, optimal berth allocations are determined, minimizing vessel turnaround times. Visualized in a Space-Time diagram, the results highlight efficient allocation strategies. Despite limitations, the study optimally resolved three instances, achieving a remarkable 38.54% reduction in overall vessel turnaround time compared to FCFS (First-Come-First-Serve) allocation. By prioritizing port turnaround time, the optimization substantially reduced berthing and departure delays, aligning with UNCTAD's call for enhanced port efficiency and accelerated decarbonization efforts.

Green strategies in ports: a stakeholder management perspective

AbstractThis paper delves into the intricate relationship between green strategies and stakeholder management within the port industry. We employ a robust conceptual framework and a tailored methodology, encompassing all sixteen Italian Port Management Bodies and analysing 344 related green strategies. A unique indirect approach is introduced to identify the primary stakeholders targeted by these strategies. The research identifies three primary categories of green strategies: energy efficiency, electric supply infrastructure development, and renewable energy promotion. These strategies align with increasing environmental expectations and stricter regulations. Terminal operators and local communities emerge as primary stakeholder groups, underscoring their growing influence in port management decisions. This research bridges a substantial gap in the academic literature by shedding light on the benefits of green strategies for the principal port stakeholders and the pivotal role of these strategies for stakeholder management in ports. Port managers can leverage these insights to make informed strategic decisions, strengthen their corporate social responsibility initiatives, and better address environmental concerns while meeting stakeholder expectations. Furthermore, the paper offers valuable guidance to policymakers aiming to stimulate additional investments in environmental sustainability, thereby meeting the expectations of port stakeholders and enhancing port competitiveness.

Advancing container port traffic simulation: A data-driven machine learning approach in sparse data environments

Efficient truck dispatching strategies are paramount in container terminal operations. The quality of these strategies heavily relies on accurate and expedient simulations, which provide a crucial platform for training and evaluating dispatching algorithms. In this study, we introduce data-driven machine learning methods to enhance container port truck dispatching simulation accuracy. These methods effectively surrogate the intersections within the simulation, thereby increasing the accuracy of simulated outcomes without imposing significant computational overhead in sparse data environments. We incorporate three data-driven learning methods: genetic programming (GP), reinforcement learning (RL), and a GP and RL hybrid heuristic (GPRL-H) approach. The GPRL-H method proved the most efficacious through a detailed comparative study, striking an effective balance between simulation accuracy and computational efficiency. It reduced the error rate of simulation from approximately 35% to about 7%, while also halving the simulation time compared to the RL-based method. Our proposed method also does not rely on precise Global Positioning System (GPS) data to simulate truck operations within a port accurately. Demonstrating robustness and adaptability, this approach holds promise for extending beyond port operations to improve the simulation accuracy of vehicle operations in various scenarios characterized by sparse data.

항만당국과 터미널 운영사 간 임대 계약 방식의 성과에 관한 연구

This study examines the performance of port authorities and terminal operators under different types of concession contracts in ports. The port authority signs into a concession contract with the terminal operator to receive fee, and the operator utilizes the terminal to provide loading and unloading services. The demand at the port is affected by the terminal operator's price and service level. This study analyzes the performance of each model using game theory under three different concession schemes: two-part tariff model, revenue-sharing model, and revenue-cost-sharing model. The results show that the revenue-sharing model can improve the profitability of port authorities and terminal operators compared to the two-part tariff model, but it may result in lower service levels at the terminal. On the other hand, the revenue-cost-sharing model can improve both the profit and the service level of each party compared to the two-part tariff model, and can achieve higher performance than the revenue- sharing mode. The significance of this study is that it analyzes the revenue sharing model, which has not been studied much in the past, and considers the service level in analyzing the effect of concession contracts.

Advances in terminal management: simulation of vehicle traffic in container terminals

AbstractControlling and managing traffic flows on internal roads in container terminals are crucial in achieving expected productivity levels and reducing negative externalities caused by congestion inside and outside the terminal areas. This paper proposes a simulation approach which terminal operators can use as a decision-support tool to assess the effects of their management strategies and improve terminal performance, resilience, and sustainability. A microscopic traffic simulation approach models key operations of a typical container terminal affecting road traffic flows. In particular, to estimate quantitative indicators, an import truck process is reproduced, considering the overlapping of the external truck and internal trailer flows. To measure environmental impacts, the model is extended with an instantaneous emissions model linked directly to the step-by-step traffic data. The proposed method is tested on a sector of the PSA Genova Pra’, the main Italian container gateway terminal. Performance indicators related to the terminal’s efficiency and sustainability are estimated, to compare alternative scenarios considering possible operational configurations and disturbance events, such as the closure of a part of the yard. By focusing on the interactions between vehicle flows and terminal equipment operations, this approach offers a new perspective on terminal operations, oriented both towards container terminal operators and stakeholders, such as road hauliers.

A new conception of port governance under climate change

The port governance literature has charted the trend towards devolution of port services to the private sector, also showing how the increasing influence of external private actors such as shipping lines and global terminal operators affects decisions on expansion and service provision, producing a more multifaceted and polycentric kind of port governance. In this paper we extend these notions to cover both mitigation of and adaptation to climate change. A growing body of literature on green ports discusses the various actions that can be taken to limit emissions in the port area, while another body of literature is growing on climate change adaptation measures, including the uncertain risks and rewards. Both mitigation and adaptation actions are partly linked to the commercial decisions of port actors but also partly driven by external actors (e.g. society, government, regulators). The analysis produces an updated conceptualisation of port governance under climate change, based on four stakeholder groups (public policy, commercial actors, indirect actors and international shipping governance) and produces three key conclusions. First, concession contracts and commercial relationships will need to change, with a more integrated vision and approach to sharing future (sometimes undefined or uncosted) costs and benefits between the port authority and commercial partners. Second, diversification of the port business model will see a larger focus on energy production and provision, requiring the more explicit inclusion of external stakeholders, particularly energy companies, in port governance. Third, port governance will see a return to prominence of the public dimension, both in terms of national decarbonisation plans and particularly regarding adaptation to an uncertain and turbulent future. As ports are both commercial activities and national infrastructure, these different identities will need to be united in a joint vision.

Research Progress and Hot Frontier Analysis of Container Terminal Transportation Operations

Using CiteSpace software and bibliometric method, 652 articles related to container terminal transportation operations in WOS core collection database were visualized and analyzed. Based on the network knowledge graph of document distribution of time and space, core author, research institution and key words, this paper analyzes the overall distribution, research hotspot, evolution context and frontier trend of container terminal transport operations research, in order to enrich the perspective of container terminal transport operations review study, and provide reference for promoting the construction of container terminals in our country.

BSPM: Blockchain-based Security Protection Model for power load management terminals

Power load management terminals are essential components of the smart grid system. However, they encounter numerous security challenges owing to their widespread deployment across large areas. These nodes exist in uncontrollable physical environments and are vulnerable to malicious attacks. Researching security measures for these terminals is vital to enhancing the security of the smart grid. Blockchain technology, with its distributed storage and tamper-proof features, can effectively protect the data security of these terminals. This paper proposes a blockchain-based security protection model for power load management terminals. First, the architecture of the model is designed using blockchain technology. In addition, a dynamic trust evaluation method for terminals is established through the beta reputation system. The blockchain consensus algorithm for power load management terminals is designed based on the trust evaluation value and practical Byzantine fault tolerance. The effectiveness of the trust evaluation model is verified by simulating the terminal operating situation. The message complexity and storage requirements of the security protection model are analyzed by comparing them with results from related studies.

Performance analysis for a maritime port with high-frequency services: an Italian case study

The increasing demand at maritime traffic nodes in multi-modal transport emerges as a critical factor for the country’s economy. Consequently, terminal operators should focus on proper strategies and policies to satisfy the increasing demand. This paper exploits the integration of Information Communications Technology systems into physical infrastructures and offers an in-depth study of operations and performance optimisation for a maritime terminal. The case study is the Messina-Tremestieri port (Sicily, South Italy), characterised by a high flow of cars and freight vehicles. This port is in the comprehensive Trans-European Transport Network, and it links Sicily Island with Italy, offering high-frequency services. About 30% of the goods by Ro-Ro services pass through this port: so, it makes sense to use it as a case study. The arrivals distribution, the terminal capacity and the supply offered by the shipping companies are considered input, and terminal efficiency is evaluated through indicators such as the saturation of the yard area and the average vessel load factor. Besides, the study offers two viable solutions to the emerging port saturation. First, a tactical policy (with no infrastructural costs) includes the introduction of flexible time windows. Alternatively, the introduction of additional vessel services has been evaluated during peak hours. Benefits have been simulated by comparing the total number of vehicles served in current and simulated scenarios.

The Behavior of Terminal Voltage and Frequency of Wind-Driven Single-Phase Induction Generators under Variations in Excitation Capacitances for Different Operating Conditions

This paper assesses the behavior of output voltage and frequency of wind-driven self-excited induction generators with variable excitation capacitances connected to the main and auxiliary windings under different operating conditions. The optimum values of the main winding excitation capacitance for fixed terminal voltage operation under different values of shunt capacitance, load, and speed are also evaluated. The obtained results show that the terminal voltage is highly affected by changing the main winding excitation capacitance. In addition, the frequency is greatly affected by changing the auxiliary winding excitation capacitance. However, under different operating conditions, variation in the output frequency under different values of the main winding capacitance, with fixed auxiliary winding capacitance, is acceptable. Extensive simulations were conducted and the results are discussed in this publication.

In-situ wet milling for particle size control in continuous crystallization: Expanding the attainable region

Continuous mixed-suspension mixed-product removal crystallizer cascades are robust and proven options for continuous manufacturing. However, when applied to a late-stage drug substance the desired particle size could not be achieved due to rapid crystal growth and slow secondary nucleation kinetics. This necessitated a batch terminal milling operation to achieve particle size control (Johnson et al., 2021). To overcome this and to intensify the process, an in-situ high-shear wet mill was integrated into the continuous equipment train to achieve the target physical properties of the drug substance that met the quality and manufacturability criteria needed for the drug product. This article describes the workflow used to optimize the equipment set and operational parameters. Incorporation of a high-shear wet mill operated intermittently in the continuous drug substance process greatly expanded the attainable particle size region, improved product quality, reduced cycle time, and simplified process development and scale-up compared to the process of batch milling after continuous crystallization. Small scale batch milling experiments were used to characterize milling performance at lab and production scales and inform operational space. Several lab-scale continuous runs were then used to define the process operating space and validate the process parameters necessary to meet the particle specifications of the product. Scale-up of the equipment set for in-situ milling was also demonstrated. This approach was tested at lab-scale on representative material operating for 70 h while changing the particle size of the product in real time. This illustrated the potential of intermittent milling for model-free particle size control.

An accelerated Benders decomposition algorithm for the integrated storage space assignment, berth allocation, and yard crane deployment problem

In this paper, storage space assignment problem, berth allocation problem, and yard crane deployment problem are integrated with due attention to traffic congestion in the passing lines of storage yards. The paper provides a mixed-integer programming model for the integrated problem with the objective of minimizing the movement and operating costs of yard cranes, the cost of moving container flow between the storage yard and berths, and the delay cost of vessels. The planning horizon is considered to be one day and the berth layout is assumed to be discrete. Since the integrated storage space assignment and yard crane deployment problem is NP-hard and so is berth allocation problem, the integration of these three problems will be at least equally complex. Thus, an Accelerated Benders Decomposition Algorithm is also developed for solving the integrated problem. This is done by introducing a combinatorial Benders cut to the classical Benders decomposition algorithm to improve its performance and also adding 8 valid inequalities derived from the problem properties and assumptions to the algorithm formulation to accelerate the solution process. The proposed mathematical model and solution approach are evaluated by generating instances of different sizes for the problem and assessing the solution results. The results show the good performance of the proposed accelerated Benders decomposition algorithm. Taking the integrated approach to the modeling of the three problems rather than the non-integrated approach improved the cost of terminal operations by 11.15% on average.

Research on the Construction of a Digital Twin System for the Long-Term Service Monitoring of Port Terminals

Structural damage is a prevalent issue in long-term operations of harbor terminals. Addressing the lack of transparency in terminal infrastructure components, the limited integration of sensor monitoring data, and the insufficient support for feedback on service performance, we propose a novel digital twin system construction methodology tailored for the long-term monitoring of port terminals. This study elaborates on the organization and processing of foundational geospatial data, sensor monitoring information, and oceanic hydrometeorological data essential for constructing a digital twin of the terminal. By mapping relationships between physical and virtual spaces, we developed comprehensive dynamic and static models of terminal facilities. Employing a “particle model” approach, we visually represented oceanic and meteorological elements. Additionally, we developed a multi-source heterogeneous data fusion model to facilitate the rapid creation of data indexes for harbor elements under high concurrency conditions, effectively addressing performance issues related to scene-rendering visualization and real-time sensor data storage efficiency. Experimental validation demonstrates that this method enables the rapid construction of digital twin systems for port terminals and supports practical application in business scenarios. Data analysis and comparison confirm the feasibility of the proposed method, providing an effective approach for the long-term monitoring of port terminal operations.