A Multi-Agent-based Simulation Model for Operations in the Automated Container Terminal with a U-Shaped Layout

Abstract

With the development of automated container terminals (ACTs), various layouts of terminals are emerging. In this study, we take the operation in ACT with U-shaped layout as the research object, analyze the characteristics of the ACT layout and the operation process. Based on that, we construct a multi-agent-based simulation model for operations in ACT with a U-shaped layout, considering the coupling operation of double trolley quayside crane (DTQC), intelligent guide vehicle (IGV) and double cantilever automatic rail mounted gantry crane (DCARMG). Finally, we take an actual ACT as an example to verify the validity of the simulation model and analyze the impact of different DCARMG operation strategies and the number of IGVs on the efficiency of terminal operations.