Application of Simulation Methods for Evaluating the Sea Waterways Traffic Organisation

Abstract

Maritime transport is of great importance as it is the basis of international trade. Shipping is a global industry and highly complex business. Further safety development at sea is determined by the growth of maritime traffic intensity. Therefore, new ideas and technologies are needed to optimize the sea transport system. In the paper, the cellular automaton model is suggested to describe traffic flow at grade roundabout and simple crossing. Not only the cell state but also neighborhood as well is defined for presented cellular automaton. The model, describing vessels motion, takes into account vessel’s type, speed and length, vessel’s behavior and maneuverability, lane status, and flow density. It provides the basis for simulation. Two types of traffic schemes, namely, roundabout and simple routes crossing, are considered. Some results of simulation, including ships safety prediction, illustrate possible applications for evaluation of maritime traffic organization. Final conclusion and remarks outline further work development.