Identifying the operational process of a ro-ro terminal using system dynamics modelling

Abstract

The growth of Roll on Roll off (Ro-Ro) shipping operations have become significant in global maritime operations with the continued growth of the global automobile distribution. To optimize Ro-Ro terminal operations, it is required to identify the major processes that takes place within a Ro-Ro terminal. This study identifies the major operational flows within the Ro-Ro terminal using Systems Dynamics (SD) modelling. Five causal loops are identified and discussed in the study which are tested under the actual operations of a well-reputed Ro-Ro terminal. First loop refers to basic assignment between berths and storage yards, while loops 2 and 3 describe variables in discharging and loading vehicles consecutively. Loop 4 describes the procedure of allocating drivers to loading and discharging processes while loop 5 focuses on its impact towards loading and discharging times of vehicles. This study demonstrates the major actors that impact the rate of transferring an incoming set of vehicles to a yard location in the Ro-Ro terminal. Location and layout of the yard and berthing areas, operational restrictions within the Ro-Ro terminal, terminal specific operational procedures and impact of the human factors have been identified.