Terminal Operations Research Articles

Coarse-grained vs fine-grained optimisation in highly integrated problem environments: A case study featuring port terminal operations

The problem environment port terminal operators face is characterised by a highly integrated and complex workflow. There are numerous decisions at radically different scales which must be made, all the way from the berthing of huge vessels to the storage of individual shipping containers. Yet regardless of the specific decision at hand, the core objective typically remains the same: to minimise the travel distance of containers through the yard. In this paper we bring together all major port terminal decisions and, for the first time, seek to optimise these decisions with container distance minimisation in mind. The result is a problem we term the Berth Allocation, Crane and Yard Storage Assignment Problem (BACYSAP). We investigate the added value of treating all these decisions in a simultaneous fashion and compare our results against a more naïve, yet simpler, sequential approach which first solves the berth and crane problems independently and then uses these decisions as input for the yard assignment problem. Our results are somewhat counterintuitive and should not only offer food for thought to those working in port terminals, but any problem environment where there are multiple components with a single ultimate objective. The core contribution of this paper is therefore less to do with the specifics of port terminals and is instead more methodological in nature, namely: how should operational manager decision makers proceed in highly integrated problem environments so they can be confident their approach (i) produces sufficiently good results and (ii) is not unnecessarily complex.

Research on optimization of approach procedures for airports in an alpine environment

Obstacles in alpine environments pose significant challenges to aircraft safety during terminal operations. Key challenges include constraints from obstacles within the terminal clearance area and the labor-intensive manual calculations of flight procedures. The focal point of concern lies in the design of approach procedures, particularly due to the heightened risk of collisions with obstacles during the descent segment in such terrain. To address these challenges, initially, this paper proposes processing the terrain data and visualizing and extracting the topographic data of the alpine airport by adopting a bi-cubic b-spline interpolation and cellular automatic machine model. Then, the paper proposes improving the A* path algorithm to make sure it can obey the standards of flight procedure design, utilizing the improved A* path algorithm to design approach procedures. As fuel consumption is directly connected with the economy of aviation companies, this research finally suggests employing the fuel consumption evaluation model to select the most efficient approach flight procedures. This research takes a case study of a Yunnan airport and simulates and designs the optimized approach procedures by A* path algorithm and evaluation based on fuel consumption. Results indicate that the parameters of optimized approach procedures align with the regulation of flight procedure design and meet the requirements of real flight operation. Therefore, the core tenant of this research can provide a feasible idea for flight procedures with alpine airports and has the potential to reduce workload and enhance operational efficiency.

Research on continuous authentication using dynamic biometrics during information terminal operation

Cyberattacks and cybercrime have increased along with digitisation, causing financial damage and putting lives at risk. It‘s difficult to stop criminals attempting attacks, but more can be done to thwart these efforts. Measures such as 2FA (two factor authentication) aren‘t foolproof. At the Department of Information and Electronic Systems Engineering, Daiichi Institute of Technology, Japan, researchers are conducting research on continuous authentication. They are developing a method by which the identity of a user can be continuously authenticated in order to improve security measures and reduce incidences of fraud, cyberattacks and cybercrime. Professor Takeshi Yamada leads the team, bringing his research background in physics, biometrics, information theory and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to overcoming the limitations of current user authentication systems. Even with continuous authentication, there are challenges to overcome such as interruptions caused by regular requests for ID and password authentication and what is known as ‘leakage’, whereby the leakage of IDs and passwords can enable unauthorised users to freely operate systems. These challenges led the team to the idea of continuous authentication by biometrics. The researchers decided to focus on continuous authentication using behavioural features, which includes handwriting, voiceprint and gait, and, for computer and smartphone security, authentication using features obtained from keyboard, mouse and touch operations.

Scheduling of automated ore terminal operations based on fixed inflow rhythm

To facilitate transportation, some mines construct specialized ore terminals for outbound shipments. However, these terminals frequently encounter challenges when synchronizing their schedules with the production plans of the mines. The primary issue arises due to the inherent deviation between vessel demand and mine production schedules. The terminals must efficiently arrange storage positions for diverse cargo types and berthing orders of vessels to reduce the time vessels spend at the terminal and operation time. In this study, we propose a comprehensive two-step model framework that considers various customer priorities to optimize the operational plans for each operation. In the first step, we propose a column-generation approach to generate candidate berth plans. Subsequently, we evaluate the feasibility of berth plans and construct an infeasible CUT to modify the model. We implement the developed framework in real-world case studies to demonstrate its practicality and potential. Computational outcomes underscore the method’s efficacy in resolving coordination challenges between mines and terminals. Furthermore, it exhibits a noteworthy capability to diminish the terminal’s spatial requirements, enhancing its pragmatic value.

Mapping routine interactions in port operations: Insights from social network analysis

Social network analysis proves to be a valuable instrument for comprehending and visually representing intricate relationships among diverse entities within a network. This study aims to explore the application of social network analysis within the context of hinterland port operations. In pursuit of this aim, we examined the interactions amongst various stakeholders, including port authorities, truck drivers, port agent companies, vigilant guards, import/export firms, and terminal operators. As a result, we unveiled patterns, pinpointed bottlenecks, and unearthed opportunities to amplify efficiency and collaboration within this system. This inquiry contributes to the existing body of knowledge concerning the utilization of social network analysis within the maritime industry while also providing insights to enhance port performance.

Construction of power load control and management terminal operation system based on machine learning technology

With the increasing Power Load (PL), the operation of the power system is facing increasingly severe challenges. PL control is an important means to ensure the stability of power system operation and power supply quality. However, traditional PL control methods have limitations and cannot meet the requirements of load control in the new era of power systems. This is because with the development of modern industry and commerce, the demand for electricity is gradually increasing. This article constructed a PL control and management terminal operating system based on machine learning technology to achieve intelligent management of PL, so as to improve the operational efficiency and power supply quality of the power system. This article identified the design concept of a PL control management terminal operating system based on machine learning technology by reviewing the current research status of PL control technology. Based on the operational characteristics and data characteristics of the power system, this article selected suitable machine learning algorithms to process and analyze load data, and established a prototype of a PL control and management terminal operating system based on machine learning technology, so as to realize intelligent processing and analysis of load data and conduct experimental verification. The experimental results show that through the comparative study of 6 sets of data in the tertiary level, the difference between the system and the real tertiary level is 0.079 kw, 0.005 kw and 0.189 kw respectively. Therefore, therefore, the average difference between the predicted value and the measured value of the PL system is about 0.091 kw. This indicated that the system had high accuracy and real-time performance in predicting PL, which could effectively improve the load control efficiency and power supply quality of the power system. The PL control management terminal operating system based on machine learning technology constructed in this article provided new ideas and methods for the development of PL control technology. In the future, system algorithms can be further optimized and a more intelligent PL control and management terminal operating system can be constructed to cope with the growing PL and increasingly complex power system operating environment.

Forecasting Empty Container availability for Vehicle Booking System Application

Container terminals, pivotal nodes in the network of empty container movement, hold significant potential for enhancing operational efficiency within terminal depots through effective collaboration between transporters and terminal operators. This collaboration is crucial for achieving optimization, leading to streamlined operations and reduced congestion, thereby benefiting both parties. Consequently, there is a pressing need to develop the most suitable forecasting approaches to address this challenge. This study focuses on developing and evaluating a data-driven approach for forecasting empty container availability at container terminal depots within a Vehicle Booking System (VBS) framework. It addresses the gap in research concerning optimizing empty container dwell time and aims to enhance operational efficiencies in container terminal operations. Four forecasting models—Naive, ARIMA, Prophet, and LSTM—are comprehensively analyzed for their predictive capabilities, with LSTM emerging as the top performer due to its ability to capture complex time series patterns. The research underscores the significance of selecting appropriate forecasting techniques tailored to the specific requirements of container terminal operations, contributing to improved operational planning and management in maritime logistics.

Towards a Digital Twin Modeling Method for Container Terminal Port

This paper introduces a novel strategy aimed at enhancing productivity and minimizing non-productive movements within container terminals, specifically focusing on container yards. It advocates for the implementation of a digital twin-based methodology to streamline the operations of stacking cranes (SCs) responsible for container handling. The proposed approach entails the creation of a virtual container yard that mirrors the physical yard within a digital twin system, facilitating real-time observation and validation. In addition, this article demonstrates the effectiveness of using a digital twin to reduce unproductive movements and improve productivity through simulation. It defines various operational strategies and takes into account different yard contexts, providing a comprehensive understanding of optimisation possibilities. By exploiting the capabilities of the digital twin, managers and operators are provided with crucial information on operational dynamics, enabling them to identify areas for improvement. This visualisation helps decision-makers to make informed choices about their stacking strategies, thereby improving the efficiency of overall container terminal operations. Overall, this paper present a digital twin solution in container terminal operations, offering a powerful tool for optimising productivity and minimising inefficiencies.

Promoting Safety, Security, Awareness and Productivity in Port Plants

This paper focuses on the combined use of eXtended Reality and Simulation to improve awareness and confidence in Container Terminal Operations by tailoring a Simulation Systems. Experimentation is proposed as example of the benefits achievable by training virtually operators in this context. The complexity of Port Operations creates a quite dangerous environment where the highly competitive business sector push to increase speed of operations and flows. In additions Port Terminals involve many actors that have to work and interoperate within a multi domain environment, outdoor all around the clock along the year in an almost all- weather context. Ports are growing getting encapsulated within major city that over time turn to be megacities creating additional challenges especially in terms of Safety and Security that require to operate with high performance in a safe framework. The automation obviously is crucial to further increase operations, therefore up to know the human component is still quite critical for many ancillary activities as well as often on main and secondary ones due to the flexibility and reliability required. This aspect could suggest a big potential for Industry 4.0 and its future evolution in this field as well as a continuous struggling with the very conservative mentality of Shipping and Maritime Operations relying in Systems able to operate in the previous mentioned conditions. Indeed, Training and Education are crucial to face these challenges and make it possible to introduce new technologies, policies and approaches in the very strategic field of Port Activities. The authors propose an experimentation carried out to demonstrate the potential to move training and education on virtual interactive solutions based on MS2G paradigm (Modeling, interoperable Simulation and Serious Games) by tailoring a Simulation System on specific criticalities

An Examination of Nigerian Seaports Performance and Consistency

An essential measure of a port’s effectiveness is its efficiency; a well-run port lowers transportation costs, gets rid of traffic, and shortens vessel turnaround times. This study examines users’ perceptions of the pre- and transition phase of performance of Nigerian seaports. The study deployed the use of qualitative and quantitative research methods, with data spanning between the periods 1994 and 2021. The results from the study, reveal that the geographical location and the quality of port services were positive, the users rated the selected port with various variables which include, Port Services, Managerial Competency in Terminal Operations, Provision of adequate and Modern Critical Infrastructure, the use of Information Technology for cargoes clearance. In the table below, Satisfaction of port services were poorly rated during the pre-concession era with the mean value of 1.70, while at the era of post concession it was rated with the mean value of 2.75. The study concludes that the implementation of concessions during the period of this study had a positive but weak effect on the performance of seaports in Nigeria. This could be attributed to the continuous level of government interference in port operations despite concessions, which impedes the smooth performance of the nation’s ports. The study recommends that efforts should be made to enhance the policy of eradicating corrupt practices in the seaport.

Operational performance evaluation of a container terminal using data mining and simulation

The efficient operation of container terminals facilitates the seamless flow of goods across borders. New technologies such as big data, data mining, and simulation models, have emerged in the maritime industry, enabling optimization and performance evaluation. This study investigated how data science using operational data can improve container terminal operations, drive efficiency, enhance throughput, and bolster competitiveness in the shipping sector. Decision-making within container terminals, particularly in determining optimal container stacking locations, poses a significant challenge owing to the multitude of factors at play. By analyzing the datasets, new strategies and policies can be simulated to minimize container rehandling operations. This study focuses on the Hakata International Container Terminal in Japan, where daily operational data from rubber-tired gantry equipment are used to investigate container movements. A significant reduction in the total number of movements required to perform container-handling operations was demonstrated by implementing data-driven strategies and simulation modeling.

Mixed integer programming model with constraints for integrated container terminal operations

The objective of a container terminal is to complete operations with each docked vessel as quickly as possible to minimize the waiting time of the vessel at the port and thus maximize the turnover, i.e., the number of containers handled. Optimization of complex operations at a container terminal is computationally challenging. This paper considers the complex problem of assigning mooring cranes, scheduling mooring cranes, assigning warehouse location and dispatching vehicles at a container terminal. The main objective is to minimize the turnaround time of ships and maximize the throughput of the terminal. In this paper, constraints are considered and a mixed integer programming model is proposed for the complex problem of integrated operations in a container terminal.

Post Concession and Users’ Perceptions of Seaports in Nigeria

Seaports in Nigeria are gradually moving away from being publicly operated to engaging the private sectors in terminal operations through concession contracts. This paper examined the Users’ Perceptions of the Pre and Post Concession of Nigerian seaports. The study employed qualitative and quantitative research method with data spanning between 1994 and 2019. The results showed that; the performances of Pre concession was perceived poor by the users in Onne seaport (mean = 1.84) while it was graded good at Post concession (mean = 3.49). Port users Perceived the performances of Apapa seaport at Pre concession as poor (mean = 1.88) while it was perceived as good at Post concession (mean = 3.11). Port users Perceived the performances of Warri port at Pre concession as poor (mean = 1.75), while it was perceived good at Post concession (mean = 3.09). However Port Users in all the ports perceived level of corruption lower at the pre concession (mean = 1.64) than the post concession (mean = 2.87). In all the selected ports, users rated relevance of ICT in cargo clearance as most perceived good while the satisfaction of the port services was perceived least at concession (mean =3.64, 2.75). The paper concludes that there was an improvement in the provision of adequate & modern critical infrastructures at concession. The relevance of ICT in cargo clearance improved at concession as well as the managerial competency of the terminal operator. However, at the period of this paper, levels of corruption were perceived positive and significant at concession.

Digital Twin Based Resource Optimization and Dynamic Decision Making in Air Terminal Yards

Abstract With the growth of globalized trade, the efficient operation of airports is crucial. In this paper, we study the use of digital twin technology to optimize the yard resources of airports, which can improve their operational efficiency and decision-making quality. The study first constructs a digital twin framework for intelligent yard scheduling, which contains physical and virtual space and the connection between them. Data is collected through the physical perception module, while the virtual space is used for real-time simulation and optimized decision-making. The research methodology includes mixed integer programming and adaptive immune cloning algorithms for optimizing yard resource allocation and box space allocation. The experimental results show that the method can effectively reduce the total transportation distance in the air terminal yard operation and improve operation efficiency. The experiments demonstrate an average improvement in operational efficiency of around 20% and a cost reduction of around 15%. It is concluded that digital twin technology has apparent advantages in allocating resources in air terminal yards, which can achieve efficient utilization of resources and dynamic optimization of decision-making.

Strategi Pencegahan Fraud di Lingkungan Pelabuhan Indonesia

The port is the gateway to a country's economy, so the port must be clean from fraud. The purpose of this study is to determine the strategy developed by Pelabuhan Indonesia to prevent fraud. The method used in this research is qualitative method with a case study approach. The results and conclusions of this study are many studies on fraud prevention in the Indonesian port environment, even though Indonesian ports are one of the entry points for global trade. Therefore, Indonesian ports need an efficient fraud prevention system. The study findings show that Indonesian ports have implemented two fraud prevention strategies. The first strategy is strengthening governance within Pelindo, which includes: a) ratifying GCG guidelines; b) carrying out the signing of an integrity pact; c) gratuity control; d) a violation reporting system called "Pelindo Bersih"; e) socializing the implementation of corporate governance; and f) strengtheningPelindo'ss SMAP. The second strategy involves digitizing services such as Vessel Management System (VMS) and Vessel Traffic Service (VTS), as well as land ones such as Terminal Operating System (TOS), Multipurpose Terminal Operating System (MP-TOS), Car Terminal Operating System (CTOS), Autogate System, Single Truck Identification Data System (STID), Behandle Management System (BMS), and from the customer side such as e-Service developed into i-Hub to minimize national logistics costs, Lower the risk of fraud, and compete on a global scale.

Innovations in Ergonomic Risk Assessment and Intervention in Material Handling

This review paper delves into the complex facets of ergonomic risk evaluation and reduction across various industrial sectors. The focus is on identifying the hazards linked to manual labor, especially those contributing to physical risks and musculoskeletal disorders among workers, and proposing inventive solutions to mitigate these threats. The review brings together insights from different studies, emphasizing the application of automation, virtual modeling, Kinect-based evaluations, and other innovative tools in repetitive tasks and material handling operations. It also explores the usage of back-support exoskeletons, observational checklists, and workspace redesigns to decrease risks in construction, manufacturing, vegetable transportation, clothing accessories, and other sectors. The development of risk assessment frameworks for specific roles such as container terminal operators and the examination of musculoskeletal disorders in diverse worker demographics, including older female farmers and factory workers, are also featured. The comprehensive approach of the journal sets the stage for future research, aiming to further reduce the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders through continued innovation and cross-sector collaboration.

Musculoskeletal Disorders: Industrial Insights and Ergonomic Interventions

In response to the rising incidence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) across diverse work environments, extensive research has been undertaken. Within the apparel sector, initiatives have included workstation redesigns to alleviate worker strain. Emphasis has also been placed on formulating explicit ergonomic risk assessment standards, particularly for roles associated with heavy machinery, exemplified by container terminal operators. The agricultural domain, particularly manual farming activities in Haryana, India, has been studied to comprehend the distinct challenges encountered. The ergonomic implications for fish processing laborers, subjected to cold, damp conditions and repetitive tasks, have also been examined. Notably, the integration of biomechanics instrumentation in occupational health offers insights into refining human work-related movements for improved health. Scrutiny has been extended to varied workplaces, like flour production units and oil and gas enterprises, to discern MSD origins and propose corrective measures. With technological advancements, ergonomics now employs sophisticated tools such as computerized dynamometers for precise risk evaluations. Detailed biomechanics assessments further elucidate the physical demands on workers. Other industries, including textiles, have seen ergonomic appraisals aiming to diminish manual task strains, while the labor-intensive dairy farming sector has also been evaluated. Cumulatively, these comprehensive research endeavors pave the way for a more informed approach, suggesting preventive and mitigative strategies against MSDs across sectors.

Risk Assessment of Human Error in Orange-line Metro Depot Operation

Risk Assessment of Human Error in Orange-line Metro Depot Operation

Enhancing Sustainability through the Development of Port Communication Systems: A Case Study of the Port of Koper

This paper addresses the highly topical issue of the digitalisation of the port community through the development of advanced port communication systems (PCSs). The efficient and sustainable operation of container terminals (CTs) plays a key role in global trade and in ensuring the sustainable functioning of transport chains. While larger container terminals utilise PCSs, smaller container terminals often face challenges when implementing similar systems due to resource constraints and unique operational characteristics. This research analyses the impact of PCSs on the operational processes and information exchange between the smaller CT in the Port of Koper and the local port community. The aim of this study is to identify the possibilities of upgrading PCSs with modern information technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchains, internet-of-things (IoT), etc., that will lead to more efficient execution of operational processes, reduced congestion and a lower carbon footprint for the port community as a whole. The paper provides guidelines for the possible coordinated development of PCSs in the Northern Adriatic to ensure the most harmonised operation of stakeholders in different ports or CTs.

Delay in the Air or Detour on the Ground?—A Case Study in Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport

Collaboration between terminal airspace and airport surface operation shows an increasing significance for the best efficiency of both parts of the air traffic management domain. Runways play a critical role in connecting the two parts for departure and arrival aircraft. Suppose the gate and the entry fix of an aircraft are predetermined according to the flight plan, and they are on the opposite side of the airport terminal. The aircraft will either spend more time (i.e., delay in the air) landing on a runway close to its gate or take a longer distance (i.e., detour on the ground) taxiing to its gate if a runway close to its entry fix is assigned. This paper proposes a runway assignment model considering terminal airspace operation and airport surface movement simultaneously to discover how runway assignments can affect integrated operations. Four different runway assignment schemes are applied in this model. Subsequently, a metaheuristic method is proposed to solve the model. Furthermore, the historical taxiing and flight time data are analyzed to demonstrate the potential benefits of runway reassignment. Finally, the results show that the free assignment of the runway stands out among the four schemes, not only in the performance of terminal airspace operation (lower flight time) but also in airport surface movement (lower pushback delay, taxi time).