Research On Man-in-the-loop Simulation For Container Terminal

With the rapid development of the automation and mechanization in the container terminal systems, and the improvement of academic research in computer simulation and modeling, the computer simulation technology has been increasingly applied more widely and deeply. Academic studies abroad began since 1990s, followed closely by domestic research and progress which gradually heated up rapidly. The simulation application on container terminal system has been the focus of research nowadays. However, the traditional methods of simulation modeling have many shortcomings, which leads to different degrees of deviation between the simulation model and the real systems. This paper proposes Man-in-the-Loop simulation mode, which could realize real time simulation with the operation data of the real system.Compared with traditional simulation modeling methods, Man-in-the-Loop simulation mode is advanced with characteristics of real-time control, human-computer interaction, and the supplication of real operation data. This modeling method can compensate for the real input data problem of super real-time simulation system.The main contents of the paper include simulation modeling and message-sending, virtual reality modeling of quay cranes and information flow, database modeling, interface program development, and the function extension of the container port simulation system, which is the further study for the human factors effect of the VR QC system.Container Terminal Simulation system is divided into five sub-modules in accordance with the principle of function, including Yard, Truck transportation, Field crane, Gate , and Quay cranes module which is replaced by the Virtual Reality system. The message interaction mechanics of those modules are message-sending and task sequence function within the simulation system and the concurrent database. The interface functions of the database and the two systems are individually modeled and programmed on the platform of Visual Studio .NET in C++ language. This paper describe detailed on the modeling process and the procedure designing, including model design, modeling, interface design, procedures, and then realize the two system running online by an example , which verify the feasibility of Man-in-the-Loop simulation method. And finally purpose a experimental article on the effect of human factors in the operation of QC, and a questionnaire of the participants, which settle a foundation on the further study of the system.