Simulation of multi-barge tow operating on a river regular container line

The article presents a model for the deployment of barges, covering the container transportation and related processes such as locking and port-raid operation. Special attention is paid to coordinating the arrival and departure schedules of river ships, as they are an integral part of optimizing the operation of tows for minimal downtime due to waiting. The parameters of hydraulic structures and waterways that affect the formation pattern and duration of transport operations are considered. To improve the accuracy of the schedule, the specifics of the locks' operation and possible delays caused by the need to form a multi-barge tow with the maximum carrying capacity (load capacity). The proposed model makes it possible to calculate the need for a barges and tows, which ensures transport links between all ports of departure on a regular schedule. This model makes it possible to increase the capacity of hydraulic structures, minimize ship downtime, switch foreign trade cargo to river transport and increase the efficiency of port container terminals. The results obtained can be used to organize the fleet of shipping companies, port operators and logistics centers interested in optimizing river transportation processes.