A different use for Systems Dynamics formalism in harbor modeling: a case study

Simulation is the best tool used for any non-trivial, real world system. For analysis of complex systems, simulation is often used prior to the operation of the real world system as a mediator for a dynamic situation. Therefore, simulation methodology has been recommended and chosen to analyze, for example, container terminal systems. This paper considers two modeling techniques for port simulation approach: Discrete-Event Simulation (DES) and System Dynamics (SD). The goal is to provide a study about two different models that are not alternative but can be integrated. The results suggest the effectiveness of integrating Discrete-Event Simulation and System Dynamics to simulate a port (in Arabian gulf region) in order to size the capacity of storages and the number and features of cranes and transportation means.