A simulation analysis of the container handling process at Husøy port : the effect of a new container terminal

摘要

In this thesis we have been using simulation as a method to analyse the structuralchanges at Karmsund Container Terminal. By measuring the different steps in thecontainer handling process, we were able to evaluate how the structural changesaffected the latter process. Structural changes can in this thesis be defined as theconstruction of a new container terminal, including relocation of the various facilitiesand expanding the quayside.The simulation also made it possible to do a sensitivity analysis on the ship activityat the terminal. In this way we could evaluate how the structural changes affectedthe container terminals ability to handle an increased number of ship arrivals, aswell as a growth in the container throughput at the terminal.First we will be introducing relevant theory for this research. Parts of previousliterature were used in the development of the simulation model. The rest ispresented as a basis for the overall evaluation of the result.Our primary data were collected through interviews and observation when visitingthe container terminal. This information has been crucial for the development of thesimulation model, making sure we captured a realistic picture of the situation.The secondary data were collected through historical statistics acquired fromKarmsund Port Authorities database. Data concerning the terminal activities for thelast 9 months were collected and processed using different goodness of fit tests.The distributions developed made it possible to utilize the full extent of thesimulation program by capturing the stochastic dynamic aspects of the portactivities.The results of the simulation told us that the structural changes potentially couldaffect the overall cargo handling process in a positive way. Leading to increasedefficiency and an overall more stable operation. We also found the new terminalbetter suited to handle the expected traffic growth to the container terminal.