Simulation modelling for automated guided vehicle introduction to the loading process of ro-ro ships

Abstract

This paper aims to introduce the adaptation of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) in the car-loading process of Ro-Ro ships compared with the current loading process. This study analyzed the applicable scenarios for the AGVs’ adaptation in a Ro-Ro port, employing Arena simulation to compare the productivity of the loading processes. The results revealed that the adaptation of the AGVs in the car-loading process of the Ro-Ro ships improves productivity and solves several problems of the current loading process. With 21 or more AGVs, the entire processing time is similar to or less than the current loading process, whereas, after 40 AGVs, it stayed the same. Furthermore, as the number of AGVs increases, the transfer time decreases, but the queue becomes longer. Identifying the effect of the AGV adaptation, this study provides valuable insights for developing the various traffic situations in Ro-Ro port operations.