Design and Implementation of a Port Simulator Using Formal Graphical Approach (FGA)

The continuing growth of marine container transport, as well as, the complexity in the analysis of terminal port operations has created an ideal area for applying computer simulation. Simulators are able to generate considerable benefits and added value for the operational training. The traditional formal and on-the-job training of operational personnel is becoming inadequate, not only for providing proper skills and competencies regarding the operations to be performed, but also for addressing safety and efficiency standards in critical situations. Many ports and logistics structures have equipped themselves with simulation tools that allow an effective training activity without taking vehicles out of the normal operational cycle. This paper focuses on design and implementation of reusable, interactive, simulation-based training activities at the port and logistics sector using Formal Graphical Approach (FGA) and e-learning system, to deliver the learning objects to learners in an interactive, adaptive and flexible manner. We apply the simulator at Damietta port in Egypt as a real-world case study and developing effective web-based and computer-based learning contents in order to reach an optimal use of simulators in operational port training actions. We analyze the performance of the system and benefits of applying formal graphical approach on the training simulator. The results show the contribution of service routes, ports, container ships, and containers to the cost and performance of the system and a significant improvement is demonstrated in the operational and economic performance as a result of using the Training Simulator.