A Simulation Tool to Forecast the Behaviour of a New Smart Pre-Gate at the Sines Container Terminal

Intelligent logistical systems are crucial for adapting to technological advancements and global supply chains, particularly at seaports. Automation can maximize port efficiency and adapt to changing circumstances, but port digitalisation is challenging due to the various parties and information flows involved. The port of Sines in Portugal is undergoing a digital transformation, specifically about the Smart Gate concept. The port administration and partners have developed a pre-gate, which is being examined for operations, technologies, and information models. This work uses simulation to analyse the pre-gate model dynamically. The discrete-event simulation model, using Anylogic software (version 8.9.0), forecasts possible problems and predicts pre-gate behaviour, facilitating ongoing enhancement of pre-gate procedures. The considered scenarios vary in two factors: the processing time at the bottleneck process and the number of active lanes at the same point. Four of the twenty tested alternatives were identified as balanced. Results allow drawing conclusions on the number of lanes to be open to prevent congestion, particularly when processing times increase. The study highlights the benefits of simulating complex systems to improve operations. Future work could involve adjusting parameters, incorporating advanced optimisation techniques, and expanding evaluated metrics. The ultimate goal is to develop a reliable digital twin for the port.