WSC'00 |
Simulation of Waste Processing, Transportation, and
Disposal Operations
Janis Trone and Angela Guerin (Sandia National
Laboratory) and Amber D. Clay (Simulation Dynamics)
Abstract:
In response to the accelerated cleanup goals of the
Department of Energy, Sandia National Laboratory (Sandia) has developed and
utilized a number of simulation models to represent the processing,
transportation, and disposal of radioactive waste. Sandia, in conjunction with
Simulation Dynamics, has developed a Supply Chain model of the cradle to grave
management of radioactive waste. Sandia has used this model to assist the
Department of Energy in developing a cost effective, regulatory compliant and
efficient approach to dispose of waste from 25 sites across the country over
the next 35 years.
A Supply Chain Case Study of a Food Manufacturing
Merger
David J. Parsons and Andrew J. Siprelle (Simulation
Dynamics, Inc.)
Abstract:
A large food manufacturer recently decided to merge
with another food manufacturer of similar size. The companies anticipated
dealing with complex issues of combining their operations and supply chains.
The companies decided to use simulation as an analysis tool for the merging of
their supply chains. This paper presents a case study of the simulation study
and the results.
Using Simulation to Analyze Supply
Chains
Daniel Schunk and Beth Plott (Micro Analysis and Design,
Inc.)
Abstract:
Supply Chain management, the management of the flow of
goods or services from materials stage to the end user, is a complex process
because of the level of uncertainty at each stage of the supply chain.
Computer simulation, because it can be applied to operational problems that
are too difficult to model and solve analytically, is an especially effective
tool to help analyze supply chain logistical issues. While most engineers have
had some exposure to the tools and technology of computer modeling and
simulation, the use of simulation for supply chain analysis has not been
prevalent until recently. The software tool, Supply Solver, was developed in
an effort to provide supply chain solutions using simulation as the
foundation. In this paper, the goal will be to show how discrete-event
simulation is used to analyze supply chain processes. This paper will also
demonstrate what some of the considerations are in using Supply Solver to help
solve supply chain design problems.
Simulation Model for Shipment of Waste to the Waste
Isolation Pilot Plant
Cathy J. Barnard and David H. Van Haaften
(Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory)
Abstract:
The United States Department of Energy has agreed to
ship 15,000 drums of cold war legacy waste from the Idaho National Engineering
and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL) to the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant
(WIPP). This waste must undergo characterization and certification prior to
shipment. The processes required to characterize and certify waste for
shipment to WIPP are extremely complex. A simulation model was developed to
analyze drum throughput in these various processes. Inputs to the model
include process start and stop dates, machine upgrade dates, process times,
and process rejection rates. Outputs include machine utilization, buffer
storage statistics, truckloads shipped per month, drums shipped per month, and
drum inventory by facility. The simulation model continues to facilitate the
INEEL strategic and tactical planning needed to accomplish the agreement
within the required time frame.
An MSE-Based Simulation Capability for Strategic
and Tactical Logistics
Charles R. Standridge (Grand Valley State
University) and David R. Heltne (Equilon Enterprises LLC)
Abstract:
We have developed and applied modeling, simulation, and
analysis capabilities for addressing strategic and tactical logistics problems
in the chemical industry. These problems have to do with determining capital
equipment requirements and assessing alternative strategies for logistics
operations. Applications require short turn around time. While similar in many
respects, each application requires its own tailored solution. The modular
simulation environment approach has been used to manage a set of software,
including a commercial simulation environment, general purpose software, and
application specific tools. This set of software tools supports quick model
development and delivery of simulation results. Data organization strategies
for voluminous model input data and simulation results have been defined.
Through this application work, requirements for a more general MSE
implementation have been established.
Simulation and Optimization of Sugar Cane Transportation
in Harvest Season
José A. Díaz and Ileana G. Pérez (Instituto
Superior Politécnico 'J. A. Echeverría')
Abstract:
Cuba is one of the world’s major sugar producers,
producing on average more than five millions tons per year. The sugar cane
harvest is a huge logistical operation in which between 45 and 50 millions
tons of sugar cane must be cut and transported every year. This operation
involves thousands of workers, dozens of cutting machines, hundreds of
tractors and several hundreds of trucks and trailers all over the country.
This operation must be carefully planned and coordinated to avoid the waste of
valuable resources. Simulation has been applied here to gain insights into the
relations between the various processes, the presence of bottlenecks and their
causes and at the same time to optimize the resources allocated to the
operation as a whole. This paper describes an application involving the
simulation and optimization of a complex man-machine system that is sugar cane
harvest, in which dynamic modeling plays an important role. Simulation
modeling with design of experiments, response surfaces and optimization
techniques are combined in order to reach the best solution according to some
measurements.
SimAir: A Stochastic Model of Airline
Operations
Jay M. Rosenberger, Andrew J. Schaefer, David Goldsman,
Ellis L. Johnson, Anton J. Kleywegt, and George L. Nemhauser (Georgia
Institute of Technology)
Abstract:
Airline transportation systems are inherently random.
However, airline planning models do not explicitly consider stochasticity in
operations. Because of this, there is often a notable discrepancy between a
schedule's planned and actual performance. SimAir is a modular airline
simulation that simulates the daily operations of a domestic airline. Its
primary purpose is to evaluate plans, such as crew schedules, as well as
recovery policies in a random environment. We describe the structure of
SimAir, and we give future directions for the study of airline planning under
uncertainty.
Simulation Based Operational Analysis of Future
Space Transportation Systems
Alex J. Ruiz-Torres (University of
Texas at El Paso) and Edgar Zapata (NASA John F. Kennedy Space Center)
Abstract:
This paper presents an approach to the operational
analysis of future space transportation systems. The approach combines
knowledge from government and industry space operation and design experts,
with system analysis methodologies to predict operational characteristics of a
future space transportation system. The model proposed under this approach
utilizes expert knowledge to predict the operational requirements of a vehicle
concept, including the ground activities, flows, resources, and costs; all the
components of the spaceport. The model incorporates simulation in order to
include spaceport characteristics as alternative flows, processing
variability, and other random events. This model will provide vehicle
designers with useful un-derstanding of the spaceport operations related to
the investigated vehicle design. A stand-alone application is being developed
where the model will be implemented and validated. This paper presents an
approach to the operational analysis of future space transportation systems.
The approach combines knowledge from government and industry space operation
and design experts, with system analysis methodologies to predict operational
characteristics of a future space transportation system. The model proposed
under this approach utilizes expert knowledge to predict the operational
requirements of a vehicle concept, including the ground activities, flows,
resources, and costs; all the components of the spaceport. The model
incorporates simulation in order to include spaceport characteristics as
alternative flows, processing variability, and other random events. This model
will provide vehicle designers with useful understanding of the spaceport
operations related to the investigated vehicle design. A stand-alone
application is being developed where the model will be implemented and
validated.
Hybrid-System Simulation for National Airspace
System Safety Analysis
Amy R. Pritchett, Seungman Lee, David Huang,
and David Goldsman (Georgia Institute of Technology)
Abstract:
Analysis of large, complex systems requires simulations
of hybrid-system dynamics, i.e., dynamics which are best described by a
combination of continuous-time and discrete-event models, and their
interactions. To serve as valuable research tools, such simulations need to be
computationally efficient, readily modifiable, and open to a wide range of
component modules. This paper describes the development of a simulation
architecture meeting these criteria. The issues with its development are
described conceptually, and its application to the task of safety analysis of
the national airspace system is discussed. In particular, an object-oriented
approach to hybrid-system simulation is detailed, and computationally
efficient methods of updating the simulation are described and compared.
Traffic Flow Simulation Using CORSIM
Larry
E. Owen, Yunlong Zhang, and Lei Rao (ITT Industries, Systems Division) and
Gene McHale (Federal Highway Administration)
Abstract:
This paper presents an overview of the concept and
features of the CORSIM traffic simulation program and the TSIS package that
provides an integrated, user-friendly interface and environment for executing
CORSIM. The new functions and feature of CORSIM and TSIS in the most recent
release are highlighted. Several successful TSIS/CORSIM applications are used
to demonstrate that CORSIM is a very effective tool to perform traffic
operations analysis and to evaluate new ITS technologies.
Traffic Simulation of Roundabouts in
Switzerland
Willi Bernhard (Basle Institute of Technology,
Management and Design) and Peter Portmann (Basle Institute of Technology,
Management and Design of Technology)
Abstract:
In Switzerland, roundabouts enjoy of a large and
growing popularity. As a self-organizing system, they replace more and more
the traditional traffic light systems. This article focuses on the modeling
and simulation of a double tracked roundabout near Lucerne (Switzerland). The
simulation results were used for decision purposes; in order to find out if a
single or double tracked roundabout should be used there. All simulations were
done with the simulation language SIMSCRIPT II.5.
Modeling Road Traffic on Airport
Premises
Marco C. van Burgsteden, Paul E. Joustra, and Michiel R.
Bouwman (Incontrol Business Engineers) and Mark Hullegie (Amsterdam Airport
Schiphol)
Abstract:
This paper describes the development of a
traffic-modeling tool as an Arena template and two applications of it: one to
evaluate alternative designs for the road network on the premises of Amsterdam
Airport Schiphol and one to assess the effects of traffic signaling on a
junction. The tool uses discrete event simulation, very suited for modeling
traffic in areas where there are a lot of interactions other than
car-following. Generation of the O/D matrix was done automatically by a
custom-made application.
The Use of Simulation Modeling for Intermodal
Capacity Assessment
Beth C. Kulick and James T. Sawyer (Automation
Associates, Incorporated)
Abstract:
Simulation modeling that has been successfully used to
analyze intermodal capacity issues for a wide variety of facilities.
Simulation technology provides an analysis mechanism for large intermodal
facilities that are difficult to duplicate with other methods due to the
interaction of many variables. Automation Associates, Inc. (AAI) is a
simulation consulting services company that has been providing models for the
transportation and intermodal industry for over ten years. AAI has developed
many models to support major architecture and engineering projects as well as
provide analysis support for intermodal operators. Through this experience,
there have been modeling projects built to address different objectives based
on the project requirements. A survey of the major categories of modeling
projects based on their unique objectives and scope is presented in this
paper. Additionally, two actual model implementations are discussed relative
to this outline.
Simulation Modeling and Analysis of New International
Terminal
Ali S. Kiran and Tekin Cetinkaya (Kiran Consulting Group)
and Serafettin Og (Tepe -Akfen-Vie (TAV) )
Abstract:
This paper describes a recently completed project
involving the development of simulation models for the new international
terminal at Istanbul Ataturk Airport, Istanbul, Turkey. The simulation models
helped evaluate the passenger and aircraft flow from the terminal entrance to
boarding; identify the system bottlenecks as well as the system capacities.
The models have also been used for operations planning, training and the
demonstration of terminal activities. Since the overall objective of the
project was to validation of the terminal design, the models included major
passenger, aircraft, and baggage flow activities. The following project steps
were conducted to achieve the overall goals: 1. Developed a dynamic-stochastic
simulation model and an Excel Driven User Interface to analyze the new
International Terminal at Istanbul Ataturk Airport and identify the service
bottlenecks. (The model was developed using ProModel). 2. Conducted
experiments with the model in order to understand and evaluate the system
performance. 3. Identified the system bottlenecks and recommended solutions to
eliminate those bottlenecks and increase airport capacity and service levels.
4. Conducted training sessions for the TAV staff for continuous use of the
models. The results showed that the new terminal is capable of serving the
planned passenger capacity per year. The new terminal has more than enough
capacity for the peak hours of the day and/or peak days of the year. The
analysis also demonstrated that the daily flight schedule and gate-allocations
are very important in maximizing the system performance.
Train Station Passenger Flow Study
Janice P.
Li (Booz, Allen & Hamilton)
Abstract:
With the increasing demand for public transportation
due to congested highway, trains have become one of the most viable
alternatives, especially for daily commuting. While transit agencies are
excited with the increasing ridership, they are also challenged with a higher
volume of passenger flow and longer queuing lines at the existing stations. To
improve the current situation and plan for the future, transit agencies are
using simulation tools to help evaluating station design, queue management,
fare equipment design and fare policy impacts.
Simulation and Analysis of Non-Automated
Distribution Warehouses
Soemon Takakuwa (Nagoya University), Hiroki
Takizawa (Chuo System Corporation), Kumiko Ito (Hitachi Systems and Services,
Ltd.) and Shinichiro Hiraoka (Lion Corporation)
Abstract:
The distribution warehouse is located between
manufacturers and customers. Storage facilities are designed around four
primary functions: holding, consolidation, break-bulk, and mixing. In
addition, materials handling within a storage-handling system reduces to three
primary activities: loading and unloading, movement to and from storage, and
order filling. Generally, non-automated warehouse is more difficult to build a
simulation model than AS/RS, because materials handling is much more
complicated. In this study, a procedure to build simulation models for
move-store activities of complicated and non-automated distribution warehouses
is proposed. The simulation model here is designed to execute together with
the program for generating parameters of materials handling. Then, simulation
analysis is performed, using simulation model built by the proposed procedure.
Inventory Management Simulations at Cat
Logistics
C. Ann Goodsell and Thomas J. Van Kley (Caterpillar
Logistics Services, Inc.)
Abstract:
Simulation is used extensively by Caterpillar Logistics
Services, Inc. (Cat Logistics) to determine an appropriate strategy for
achieving clients?inventory and customer service goals. Internally developed
inventory management simulations, at the transaction and SKU level, help both
to develop inventory / service strategies for potential clients and to
determine the effect of a change in strategy for existing clients. Inventory
management continues to be a significant contributor to the success of Cat
Logistics. It is one service that distinguishes Cat Logistics from all other
third party logistics providers; a distinction made possible, in large part,
by Cat Logistics simulation technology.
Simulation within the Railroad
Environment
Harald Krueger (Canadian National Railway), Eric
Vaillancourt and Ann M. Drummie (CANAC Inc.) and Steve J. Vucko and Joe
Bekavac (Canadian National Railway)
Abstract:
A panel of individuals with expertise in the railroad
industry provides an overview of Simulation within the Railroad Environment.
The panelists discuss their work and high-light the issues, challenges, and
benefits associated with application of simulation models. Topics presented
are; ·Model Development, the issues and challenges. ·Role of Dispatch Model in
Mainline Capacity Studies. ·Benefit of Simulation tools in Train Dispatching.
·Usage of Simulation in Strategic Decision-Making. ·Areas for Improvement and
Increased use.
A Voice Assisted Simulation-Animation
Architecture
Raymond L. Smith, III (International Business Machines
Corporation) and Stephen D. Roberts (North Carolina State University)
Abstract:
This paper introduces a software architecture that has
been used to enable voice assistance for a simulation-animation environment by
integrating technologies that recognize spoken language input and generate
spoken language output. Voice assisted technology has several features which
make user navigation within complex software applications easier than
traditional methods, such as key-typed commands or mouse manipulation. While
this environment might be more friendly to an end user, several challenges
exist to a developer tasked with integrating these extremely diversity
technologies into a single software architecture that must operate with
computational efficiency. We present the requirements and design for a
proposed software architecture, referred to as the Voice Assisted
Simulation-Animation Architecture (VASArch), that attempts to address these
problems. We also present the implementation of a prototype for simulating a
single-server system with exponentially distributed customer interarrival and
service times, called VASArch(M/M/1), which was developed to demonstrate the
feasibility of the proposed software architecture. The prototype offers a user
the ability to interact with the simulation model environment by providing
input through spoken commands, mouse manipulation, and keyboard entry. In
addition, the prototype provides output, which includes statistical
information, in spoken and visual form for user examination.
Seeing is Believing: The Importance of Visualization
in Manufacturing Simulation
Matthew W. Rohrer (AutoSimulations, a
Brooks Automation Company)
Abstract:
Visualization has become a critical component of
simulation technology. Today we can’t imagine doing a simulation without some
kind of visualization to help communicate results and get better understanding
of a model’s behavior. Model build time and debugging have been significantly
improved using 2D and 3D animation. The elements of visualization are
discussed to help simulation practitioners understand where animation should
be employed and how it can improve the process of simulation modeling. The
future of visualization in simulation will also be discussed.
Simulation for Recurring Decisions
K.
Guus C. de Ruiter, Joost M. Sluijs, and Wilbert B. Stoutjesdijk (Incontrol
Business Engineers)
Abstract:
In recent years simulation proved to be a useful
technology to support the making of recurring decisions. This paper describes
the integrated simulator concept and requirements to make simulation useful
for those decisions. First, the differences between onetime decisions and
recurring decisions are pointed out. An important difference is that recurring
decision-makers don't have assistance from simulation experts to make
decisions. Therefore, decision-makers need a solution to be able to use
simulation easily. Second, the integrated simulator concept is introduced.
This concept can bring simulation to the desk of recurring decision-makers.
This has consequences for users, simulation experts and simulation software.
Finally, two cases are presented in which the integrated simulator concept
proved to be successful.
System Sizing Using Modeling and
Simulation
Michael J. Engiles and Edward R. Stephan (CACI, Inc.)
Abstract:
A set of well-honed procedures have evolved for
developing models that realistically reflect the user's application area. The
benefits derived from the application of this systematic approach begin to
accrue almost immediately. This paper will address the benefits derived from
the application of modeling and simulation to areas such as architectural
trade-offs, and sizing the system to meet the workload. A variety of practical
examples will be included from server systems, telecommunications networks and
manual processes. Inherent in the successful application of the modeling and
simulation procedures is the requirement that they be applied iteratively and
in a manner that produces frequent feedback from the system designers,
managers and user community.
Simulation of the Tornado Hazard in the
U.S.
Bronislava M. Sigal, Ajay Singhal, Kai Pan, Pasan Seneviratna,
and Masoud M. Zadeh (K2 Technologies, subsidiary of E. W. Blanch)
Abstract:
On average more than 1000 tornado touchdowns hit
continental US every year causing significant human and economic losses. In
order to manage tornado risk, we need to assess tornado hazard, the subsequent
damage, and the resulting loss. This paper presents a methodology for tornado
hazard assessment, which is an important step in the management of risk. For
this purpose, a simulation approach is used to infer the characteristics of
future tornadoes from those of past events. This paper first develops the
probability distributions of the following tornado parameters needed in the
simulation: rate of occurrence, relative frequencies of different Fujita
scales, length, width, direction, location, and wind speed at touchdown. Then
an approach for generating tornado events using the Latin hypercube method is
presented. The method is applied to obtain simulated databases. These
databases are first used to check convergence on the underlying parameters.
The databases are then used to study the convergence of average annual loss as
well as losses that are exceeded with specified probabilities.
Simulation of Transport Protocols Over Wireless
Communication Networks
Hala ElAarag and Mostafa Bassiouni
(University of Central Florida)
Abstract:
In this paper, we describe a general-purpose
communication network simulator that we designed to examine the performance of
transport protocols over wireless networks. The general-purpose simulator can
be used to study various aspects of performance of communication networks. In
particular, we use it to examine, evaluate and predict the performance of
wireless networks under a variety of the most commonly used transport
protocols. We also examine the use of newly suggested protocols specifically
designed for wireless networks. In this paper, we present our models for each
protocol. We discuss various performance measures that can be studied using
our simulator. These measures are hard to evaluate with analytical models.