Simulation and optimization for ship lock scheduling: a case study

The influence of infrastructural modifications on port and waterway locks to the lock system's capacity cannot be estimated accurately. This paper introduces a simulation model and optimization approach to ship lock scheduling capable of simulating the effects of infrastructural changes upon traffic handling at a ship lock with parallel chambers. Simulation parameters are determined via an analysis of historical data. The model is ascertained via a simulation of the current operations at the lock. The effect of infrastructural changes upon traffic handling may then be accurately assessed via new simulations. The downtimes of lock chambers due to canal drainage requirements, for example, represent a particularly interesting element of the simulation's input. Optimization of traffic handling in the new infrastructural environment is consequently performed to increase the ship lock's throughput and decrease passage times for ships. Results demonstrate the huge influence drainage policy has upon passage times, how optimizing the process results in greatly improved lock traffic handling and finally how it is in lock proprietors' best interest to seriously consider alternatives for chamber drainage downtimes.