Terminal Operations Research Articles

Renewable energy options for seaport cargo terminals with application to mega port Singapore

PurposeThis paper reviews and analyses renewable energy options, namely underground thermal, solar, wind and marine wave energy, in seaport cargo terminal operations.Design/methodology/approachFour renewable energy options that are deployed or tested in different ports around the world are qualitatively examined for their overall implementation potential and characteristics, and their cost and benefits. An application to the port of Singapore is discussed.FindingsGeophysical conditions are key criteria in assessing renewable energy options. In the case of Singapore, solar power is the only suitable renewable energy option.Research limitations/implicationsBeing a capital-intensive establishment with high intensities of cargo operations, seaports usually involve a high level of energy consumption. The study of renewable energy options contributes to seaport sustainability.Practical implicationsA key recommendation is to implement a smart energy management system that enables the mixed use of renewable energy to match energy demand and supply optimally and achieve higher energy efficiency.Originality/valueThe use of renewable energy as an eco-friendlier energy source is underway in various ports. However, there is almost no literature that analyses and compares various renewable energy options potentially suitable for cargo terminal operations in ports. This paper narrows the knowledge gaps.

Simulation Study on Sea-Rail Intermodal Diversion Operation of Container Terminal in the Beilun Port Area of Ningbo Zhoushan Port

With the continuous development of global trade, the Beilun port area of Ningbo Zhoushan Port, as an important node of international shipping, its efficient and orderly container dredging operation is crucial to ensure the overall operational efficiency of the port and the stability of the regional supply chain. However, the actual operation is faced with multiple constraints such as fluctuating berth utilization rate, complex truck scheduling, tight yard space, and so on, which need to be optimized by scientific means. To achieve more efficient container transport, it is necessary to further optimize and improve sea-rail intermodal transport to improve the efficiency of port container operations. Therefore, this paper is based on the background of the rapid development of sea-rail intermodal transport of port containers, focusing on the problem of dredging operation of container terminals in the Beilun port area of Ningbo Zhoushan Port, through the analysis of the characteristics and influencing factors of container dredging operation, research on the optimization of container dredging scheme and put forward optimization scheme for the problem of dredging in Beilun Port Area of Ningbo Zhoushan Port, which is aimed at improving the efficiency and economy of container dredging operation and the efficiency of container dredging operation in Beilun port area through the advanced modeling and simulation technology. Through advanced modeling and simulation technology, it aims to effectively improve the efficiency and economy of container dredging operations in the Beilun port area, to cope with the increasing throughput pressure and the challenges of a complex logistics environment, and to provide theoretical support and practical guidance for the development of China’s sea-railway intermodal transport.

Blockchain Technology for tracking and tracing containers: model and conception

The maritime industry has increasingly integrated advanced technologies such as AI, Blockchain, Big Data, and IoT, transforming traditional port operations into smart facilities aimed at enhancing global trade competitiveness. A particular focus has been on improving tracking and tracing services, with Blockchain technology emerging as pivotal for ensuring data integrity, transparency, and traceability across supply chains. This article proposes a blockchain-based tracking and tracing system model tailored for monitoring containers in Moroccan ports. Utilizing the Unified Modeling Language (UML), the model seeks to optimize resource allocation and boost stakeholder satisfaction through detailed diagrams and functional data requirements depiction. Despite challenges such as IoT terminal platform connectivity and operator resitance, successful implementation was achieved, establishing a foundational framework for a comprehensive container monitoring system. This model provides valuable insights for supply chain professionals and scholars interested in item tracking, aiming to integrate Blockchain with technologies like RFID, GPS, RTLS, QR Codes, BLE, and IoT sensors to enhance port operation efficiency and container management effectiveness. By leveraging these integrated technologies, ports can further improve operational efficiency and ensure accurate traceability of containers throughout the supply chain, contributing to overall trade facilitation and economic growth..

IMPROVING THE INTERACTION OF THE TYPES OF TRUCK TRANSPORTATION AT THE "NIBULON" TERMINAL IN KREMENCHUTS WHEN TRANSPORTING GRAIN LOADS

Purpose. Russia's full-scale military aggression against Ukraine significantly disrupted logistics chains, including those that ensured the export of grain. The classic transportation system at “Niboulon” terminals is focused on transshipment of grain from road to river transport with subsequent transportation to foreign countries by “river-sea” vessels. To ensure the full operation of grain terminals after disruption of water transport in the water area of the Dnipro River, it is advisable to conduct a study on the shipment of grain products to alternative modes of transport (road, rail). Accordingly, the purpose of the research is to improve the interaction of types of freight transport at the Kremenchug terminal “Nibullon” in today's conditions when the work of water transport is blocked. The classic operation scheme of the "Nibulon" grain terminal was analyzed. Scientific methods and a method of improving the interaction of different types of transport in the terminal during grain transshipment are substantiated, the determination of the optimal mass of products transferred from the terminal to the main transport is proposed. Methods. An analysis of literary sources was carried out, which made it possible to establish the peculiarities of grain transportation. Methods of set theory, theory of algorithms, theory of transport processes and systems, theory of systems are used. It was established that the optimal mass of products transferred from the terminal to the main transport depends on the average daily number of cars, the gross weight of the car, the traction characteristics of the shunting locomotive and the distance between the terminal and the sorting station of the main transport. Scientific novelty. The scientific novelty obtained as a result of the research to which the article is devoted is the method of determining the average daily number of vehicles (cars, wagons, ships) arriving at the Kremenchug terminal "Nibulon", which depends on the average annual cargo turnover for each mode of transport, the weight of the cargo in the vehicle and the number of working days per year of each type. Practical significance. The mathematical expectation of the optimal mass of grain products transferred from the terminal to the main railway transport is established. In further research, the obtained results will be used as initial data for modeling the operation of grain terminals located along the Dnipro riverbed, and in the future - in the direction of the Black Sea ports of Ukraine.

Examining the influence of global terminal operators on the performance of container terminals via privatization strategies in the maritime sector

Abstract This research navigates the evolving of global trade through an exploration of the strategic evolution of container terminals, with a specific focus on the integral role played by Global Terminal Operators (GTOs) amid prevailing privatization trends. Recognizing container terminals as critical nodes within the maritime supply chain, the study employs a comprehensive approach anchored in SWOT analysis to uncover the nuanced consequences of privatization, accentuating the collaborative influence exerted by GTOs. The research is dedicated to unraveling the intricate dynamics that shape container terminal performance, with a particular emphasis on operational efficiency, financial sustainability, administrative processes, and infrastructure development. In the era of heightened global economic interconnectivity, the study underscores the paramount importance of understanding the implications of privatization strategies. By providing nuanced insights into the strategic role of GTOs, this research transcends the boundaries of individual terminals, offering valuable perspectives for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and academics grappling with the intricacies of maritime infrastructure development in this transformative era.

The fuzzy MCDM for container terminal choice in Vietnam from shipping lines’ perspective based on cumulative prospect theory

This study aims to assess the container terminal choice from the perspective of shipping lines. The method incorporates the technique for order of preference by similarity to the ideal solution (TOPSIS) under fuzzy environmental conditions, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), and cumulative prospect theory (CPT) to address the problem while accounting for both quantitative and qualitative criteria as well as the risk attitude of the decision-makers. This paper evaluates six container terminals in Vietnam as a case study to illustrate the feasibility of the proposed approach. A summary of the assessment of shipping lines shows that operational efficiency is the most crucial criterion for the terminal’s choice; the Cat Lai terminal is considered the most appropriate terminal in Vietnam. In addition, prospect parameters have an impact on the best alternative. The findings could offer valuable insights for container terminal operators to enhance their competitiveness. Simultaneously, liner shipping companies stand to benefit by making informed and strategic decisions in their port selection processes.

USERS’ SATISFACTION WITH INTERCITY BUS TERMINAL QUALITY IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA

Globally, efficient intercity public transport relies on well-designed and high-quality terminal facilities and services to enhance accessibility, mobility, and safety for passengers and freight. Despite governmental efforts, bus terminals in Nigerian urban areas are becoming hotspots for unregulated activities and traffic chaos. In response, this study investigates users’ satisfaction with Lagos State's intercity bus terminal quality, analysing socio-economic profiles, satisfaction levels with quality of terminal facilities (QoTF) and services (QoTS), and challenges impacting terminal operations. Using a cross-sectional survey, 200 questionnaires were distributed to terminal users, employing a multistage sampling technique. Descriptive (weighted mean analysis) and inferential (multiple linear regression [MLR] analysis) statistics were employed for data analysis. Results indicate that the majority of respondents are male, aged below 40, and permanent terminal users. Satisfaction is noted with 13 out of 24 parameters of QoTF, with top-ranking parameters including parking space, restaurant facilities, and waste disposal facilities. However, dissatisfaction is expressed with 8 out of 14 parameters of QoTS. Least-satisfied QoTS parameters include staff attitudes, passenger safety, and bus service reliability. Top-rated challenges affecting terminal operations are security concerns, sanitation facility deficiencies and insufficient passenger amenities. MLR analysis indicates a significant influence of terminal facilities on overall service satisfaction (F= 2.899, p= 0.000 <0.05). In conclusion, enhancing both terminal facilities and services is crucial for efficient operations in Lagos State's bus terminals. Recommendations include improving security measures, sanitary infrastructure and staff training to address user concerns and enhance satisfaction.

Efficient Container Logistics System Model

Objective – Although there has been much research on containers and yard operations at the port, it has remained a fascinating subject of study on the logistics side because modernity, education, industries, and human behavior have changed and developed all the time. Moreover, they have continued to play significant roles in the international shipping industry and have affected the dependent economy and trade globally. The aims of this study were (1) to study container management systems and (2) to analyze the factors affecting an efficient container yard management system. Methodology – This research is classified as applied research, which consists of field surveys using the case record/report form (CRF) and data gathered through observation. A sample frame of 400 vehicles was chosen for a specific case study of an empty container terminal operation area in Bangkok port. Findings – Performance metrics for container terminal management or yard operations based on truck turnaround time were calculated by applying the Confidence Interval Theory. The data were analyzed using the SPSS program's binary logistic regression method to consider the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The results of the research have been found. The inbound container management system has been better delivered in time than the outbound, which has implemented a total operation within 16.12 minutes. Additionally, some factors have significantly impacted container yard performance, such as activity type, route, container size, distance, and tools. Novelty – This might be incurred by multifarious reasons, such as operational stages, waiting time, data transmission, task and tool allocation, areas, traffic congestion, searching the container in blocks, etc. Type of Paper: Empirical research JEL Classification: E2, E3. Keywords: Empty Container Terminal, Container Yard, Container Management System, Binary logistic regression Reference to this paper should be made as follows: Nopparit, O; Saenchaiyathon, K. (2024). Efficient Container Logistics System Model, J. Bus. Econ. Review, 9(1), 63–72. https://doi.org/10.35609/jber.2024.9.1(3)

Neural network assisted branch and bound algorithm for dynamic berth allocation problems

One of the key challenges in maritime operations at container terminals is the need to improve or optimize berth operation schedules, thus allowing terminal operators to maximize the efficiency of quay usage. Given a set of vessels and a set of berths, the goal of the dynamic berth allocation problem is to determine the allocation of each vessel to a berth and the berthing time that minimizes the total service time. This problem can be solved using exact solution methods such as branch and bound (BB) algorithms or heuristic methods, however, exact methods do not scale to large-scale terminal operations. To this end, this paper proposes a BB algorithm in which branching decisions are made with a deep neural network. The proposed exact algorithm utilizes the search order of nodes based on the output of the neural network, with the goal of speeding up the search. Three types of solution representations are compared, along with machine learning models are created for each of them. Computational results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method, which leads to computation times that are on average around half of those without the neural network.

Study on the Relationship between Port Governance and Terminal Operation System for Smart Port: Japan Case

Background: To improve port productivity, safety, and sustainability, the use of information and communication technology is being promoted as a smart port. The utilization of a terminal operation system (TOS) is important for advanced port operations, and it is necessary to organize the issues and characteristics of the TOS. Methods: The characteristics of TOSs introduced in Japan and those widely introduced in Europe and Southeast Asia will be investigated and discussed according to the port management system in Japan. Results: Japanese TOSs are characterized by a lack of automated functions, such as ship loading plans, and by the fact that they are designed to allow the crane driver to select the order of operations, which may be attributed to a system wherein stakeholders are segmented and on-site decisions are emphasized. The promotion of smart ports in Japanese-style ports requires a system for information linkage between stakeholders. Conclusions: TOS capabilities for smart ports should be implemented according to the characteristics of port management in each region, and the studies conducted in this paper are useful in examining port system implementation strategies.

A multi-agent reinforcement learning approach for ART adaptive control in automated container terminals

Intelligent transportation equipment represented by Artificial Intelligence Robot of Transportation (ART) has been gradually applied to automated container terminals (ACT). ARTs have higher intelligence and distributed autonomous decision-making capability compared to AGVs. The production and operation of ACT require strict loading plans based on container types and destination ports, which puts strict requirements on the ART loading task sequence. ART travel time from the yard to the quay is highly uncertain due to special scenarios such as traffic flow convergence and turning in narrow areas, which will lead to long waits for ART due to out-of-sequence arrivals at the quay. Therefore, it is necessary to regulate the speed of ART to adjust the timing of ART arriving at the quay. However, existing scheduling systems tend to ignore the impact of ART speed and loading sequence constraints on terminal operations. To optimize the multi-ART control problem of ACT, the waiting time of ART at the quay is taken as the optimization goal, and the speed regulation of ART during each task is defined as a Markov decision process. Then, by incorporating reinforcement learning and a multi-agent approach, an adaptive decision-making method is developed to generate the optimal speed regulation strategy. This method interacts with the multi-agent simulation environment to obtain real-time status information and learns strategies online to improve the intelligence of individual agents and the collaborative capabilities of the agent group. Finally, a multi-agent simulation model embedded with a reinforcement learning agent is established on AnyLogic software. Simulation results show that this method can effectively reduce the waiting time of ART, improve the coherence and efficiency of loading operations, and exhibit good performance in online scenarios that consider emergency tasks. The results indicate that the speed of ART in ACTs with parallel layout of the yard can impact the operational efficiency of the system. Furthermore, by appropriately defining the reward function and training method, collaborative behaviour among equipment can be enhanced, ultimately optimizing the overall performance of the system.

Intermodal Transportation Challenges in Eastern Europe: Case Study of Romania

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to analyze data from the Romanian intermodal transportation sector and provide an overview of its main terminals (sea, river, road and rail) and the operational challenges faced by its most important logistics service providers. Intermodal transportation (by rail) is encouraged at EU level as a sustainable alternative to current predominant truck haulage. Most research articles outline issues with connectivity, terminal handling infrastructure and cost efficiency as factors hindering large scale adoption. Other authors tend to emphasize the more reliable delivery schedules, reduced road congestion and emissions as drivers of cost competitiveness on medium term. Relevant cargo volume traffic (tons, TEU and ITU) is analyzed at Romania’s main intermodal hubs in the last 10 years (2014-2023) using quantitative and qualitative data to provide a comprehensive overview of its overall competitiveness in this sector. Most Eastern European countries are faced with the same challenge in terms of intermodal transportation: the shortcomings of their supporting network due to insufficient public investment, highlighted by the results from Romania (case study method). Main results show Constanta Port had record cargo traffic in 2023, but its throughput is hindered by constant congestion issues, similar to the highly competitive road sector where intense truck traffic creates bottlenecks on the major roads leading to Western Europe. Cargo is also shipped via the Danube and freight trains, but to a limited extent due to low average speeds and inconsistent reliability along most sectors. The paper highlights the importance of a country’s strategic hubs and their connectivity (sea and/or river ports, main railway lines and road sectors) as a source of future growth and development perspectives, for terminal operators as well as neighboring regions (EU and EEA) through increased business activity.

Insights into How to Enhance Container Terminal Operations with Digital Twins

Insights into How to Enhance Container Terminal Operations with Digital Twins

Flowfield Analysis of Vortex Interactions During Large Sharp-Edged Gusts

Uncrewed air vehicles in urban environments will have flights during terminal operations that are dominated by strong transient aerodynamics. These vehicles are not only lighter and smaller than traditional rotorcraft and helicopters, but in many instances they may be hybrid configurations with lifting surfaces similar to those of fixed-wing aircraft. These differences require further understanding of the physics of these transient aerodynamics, specifically large-amplitude transverse gusts and the resulting vehicle response, where classic indicial theory is no longer valid. This is crucial to the safety and certification of these air vehicles near buildings and populations. Prior efforts identified that gust responses depart from traditional linear theory when the leading-edge vortex (LEV) forms as a distinct feature and departs from the lifting surface, resulting in flow nonlinearities. This paper expands our understanding of the interactional physics of these nonlinear transverse gusts with flow separation. LEV and trailing-edge vortex (TEV) behavior are correlated, and these vortex interactions are studied to understand the impact on flow separation and subsequent aerodynamic behavior. Larger gust ratios are observed to increase the LEV normal translation, while flow separation is driven by the location and magnitude of the TEV.

A Novel Auction-Based Truck Appointment System for Marine Terminals

Background: Increased maritime trade has led to a surge in drayage operations, causing congestion and environmental issues in port areas. Truck Appointment Systems (TASs) are commonly used to manage truck arrival rates, yet transparency and equity in slot allocation remain problematic, fostering distrust between Licensed Motor Carriers (LMCs) and Marine Terminal Operators (MTOs). Methods: This study proposes a polycentric approach to improve truck scheduling and ensure that those impacted by decisions are involved in the decision-making process. A single-round auction mechanism focused on optimizing the truck hauling process through a pricing policy that promotes sincere bidding is introduced. The proposed approach employs an optimization strategy to achieve equitable coordination in truck synchronization through means of adaptable capacity management. Results: Numerical experiments assessing scenarios of noncollaborative behavior against partial collaboration between MTOs and LMCs demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in enhancing user satisfaction and terminal conditions for a case study focused on a medium-sized terminal. Collaboration between trucking companies is shown to increase utility per monetary unit spent on slot acquisition. Conclusions: The polycentric strategy offers a solution to TAS limitations by ensuring stakeholder participation with respect to flexibility and transparency by ensuring that those impacted by decisions are involved in the decision-making process.

Assessing the Digital Transformation in the Maritime Transport Sector: A Case Study of Croatia

In this research, the authors investigated the factors of digital transformation in the maritime transport sector, which were applied to the case study of Croatia. Since there is a pronounced lack of research dealing with the digital transformation factors in the maritime transport sector both globally and in Croatia, as a first step the authors identified the aforementioned factors using the literature review method and interviews. Moreover, the survey was carried out among a representative group of stakeholders involved in the maritime transport sector in Croatia, including administrative entities such as port authorities, ministries, and harbormaster’s offices, as well as commercial participants such as freight forwarders, agents, and terminal operators. The goal was to obtain the state of the art of digital transformation in the maritime transport sector. A total of 94 organizations provided valid responses. Finally, the authors proposed measures to improve the digital transformation in the maritime transport sector in Croatia. The results highlighted the importance of various digital transformation factors, such as information security, investment in emerging technologies, leadership motivation, and expertise. The case study presented serves as a valuable reference for comparable countries that recognize their resource constraints but aspire to enhance their efficiency and competitiveness.

Multiagent Q-Learning Approach for the Recharging Scheduling of Electric Automated Guided Vehicles in Container Terminals

In recent years, advancements in battery technology have led to increased adoption of electric automated guided vehicles in container terminals. Given how critical these vehicles are to terminal operations, this trend requires efficient recharging scheduling for automated guided vehicles, and the main challenges arise from limited charging station capacity and tight vehicle schedules. Motivated by the dynamic nature of the problem, the recharging scheduling problem for an entire vehicle fleet given capacitated stations is formulated as a Markov decision process model. Then, it is solved using a multiagent Q-learning (MAQL) approach to produce a recharging schedule that minimizes the delay of jobs. Numerical experiments show that under a stochastic environment in terms of vehicle travel time, MAQL enables the exploration of better scheduling by coordinating across the entire vehicle fleet and charging facilities and outperforms various benchmark approaches, with an additional improvement of 18.8% on average over the best rule-based heuristic and 5.4% over the predetermined approach. Funding: This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grant 72101203], the Shaanxi Provincial Key R&D Program, China [Grant 2022KW-02], and the Singapore Maritime Institute [Grant SMI-2017-SP-002]. Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/trsc.2022.0113 .

The influence of management functions on the productivity of yard cargo handling equipment in container terminals

PurposeThis empirical study explores the profound impact of management functions on the productivity of yard cargo handling equipment within container terminals.Design/methodology/approachBy closely examining crucial management aspects such as planning, organizing, leading, and controlling, a comprehensive managerial behavior framework was developed through focus group studies (FGS) and focal interviews. These qualitative methods were complemented by the distribution of questionnaires to practitioners in Vietnam. To validate the concept of management functions and analyze their influence on effective management practices for equipment efficiency, a structural equation model (SEM) technique was employed using partial least-squares estimation (PLS).FindingsThe findings of this study demonstrate that planning (PL), organizing (OR), and controlling (CT) significantly contribute to the productivity of yard cargo handling equipment, while leading (LD) does not exhibit a direct positive impact.Originality/valueTheoretically, this study contributes by providing clarity to the definition, purpose, and value of management functions in the field of cargo handling equipment management. Furthermore, these research findings offer valuable insights to terminal operators and managers, enabling them to optimize their management strategies and enhance productivity levels, ultimately resulting in improved operational outcomes.

The impact of container call size - evidence from simulation modelling

We present an analysis of the impact of large container ship call sizes on the operational efficiency of container terminals as well as on hinterland modes of transport. We use standard container terminal simulation software, that can represent a realistic terminal operation. We include dynamic crane productivity, arrival time uncertainty, and deepsea vessel prioritisation in our model.Our experiments investigate the impact of introducing larger call sizes of container ships, increasing the uncertainty in arrival times of deepsea ships, and the impact of the phenomenon of split calls that are employed by the largest container ships in certain regions in the world. We differentiate between the impact on terminal operations, land-based hinterland traffic, and hinterland traffic over water, through barges and feeder vessels.Our results show that introducing large ships with large container call sizes comes with benefits and drawbacks. Benefits can be found in planning advantages for both the deepsea ships and barges and feeders handled in the terminal. Drawbacks occur as a result of operational peaks in subsystems such as the quay cranes, the stack and the land side gates. Higher uncertainty deteriorates the performance of the terminal, but the impact on the hinterland modes of transport is greater than on the large deepsea vessels. The impact of the split call is that it brings all the disadvantages of large vessels, but none of the benefits.Our analysis shows the operational impact of large call sizes on terminal operations and hinterland transport operations, based on container terminal simulations with a higher degree of realism than previous work. In addition, we offer, for the first time, insights in the impact of split calls of container ships at container terminals.

Integrated rescheduling optimization of berth allocation and quay crane allocation with shifting strategies

Container terminal operations are a core aspect of vessel operations in ports and necessitate an intelligent rescheduling approach to manage complex uncertainty scenarios. This paper investigates the problem of berth allocation and quay crane (QC) assignment with shifting strategies. A variable-length rolling mechanism (VLRM) is designed to identify uncertainty scenarios and determine the optimal rescheduling time point. Notably, we introduce a novel cross-wharf shifting movements strategy (CWSM) and develop a rescheduling model that accounts for constraints related to tidal time windows. The proposed Adaptive Large Neighborhood Search algorithm (ALNS) is tailored to solve this problem effectively. Computational results from various instance sizes validate the efficacy of both the model and the ALNS algorithm. These results demonstrate that the ALNS algorithm exhibits distinct advantages in solution quality and computational time for large-scale instances. Furthermore, the inclusion of tidal time window constraints significantly amplifies the complexity of uncertainty scenarios, emphasizing their importance and the impossibility of neglecting them. The cross-wharf shifting movements strategy, presented herein, effectively mitigates the impact of uncertainty scenarios within a defined scope while enhancing adjustment flexibility.