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Abstract:
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This thesis deals with the use of simulation as a problem-solving tool to solve a
few logistic system related problems. More specifically it relates to studies on
transport terminals. Transport terminals are key elements in the supply chains of
industrial systems. One of the problems related to use of simulation is that of the
multiplicity of models needed to study different problems. There is a need for
development of methodologies related to conceptual modelling which will help
reduce the number of models needed. Three different logistic terminal systems
Viz. a railway yard, container terminal of apart and airport terminal were selected
as cases for this study. The standard methodology for simulation development
consisting of system study and data collection, conceptual model design, detailed
model design and development, model verification and validation,
experimentation, and analysis of results, reporting of finding were carried out.
We found that models could be classified into tightly pre-scheduled, moderately
pre-scheduled and unscheduled systems. Three types simulation models( called
TYPE 1, TYPE 2 and TYPE 3) of various terminal operations were developed in
the simulation package Extend. All models were of the type discrete-event
simulation. Simulation models were successfully used to help solve strategic,
tactical and operational problems related to three important logistic terminals as
set in our objectives. From the point of contribution to conceptual modelling we
have demonstrated that clubbing problems into operational, tactical and strategic
and matching them with tightly pre-scheduled, moderately pre-scheduled and
unscheduled systems is a good workable approach which reduces the number of
models needed to study different terminal related problems. |