New Maritime Simulation Software Model Developed for La Plata River

Siport21 develops, Siflow21, a new analysis and simulation maritime traffic software. This  system compares different layout alternatives of waterways or port areas to select the  optimized option and the resources needed for achieving the maximum operational  efficiency.  

The traffic prediction model built for La Plata and Parana Rivers (Argentina) stands out  among first developments. The aim of this project was to evaluate the impact of planned  dredging works and assess different locations for the development of new logistical  infrastructure. 

This area has a high miscellaneous traffic density with large developments on the agenda  (modification/extension of container terminals, deepening projects and new port access)  and several issues (LNG traffic influence and high anchorage occupation with diverse  activities). This model was calibrated with one-year AIS data in order to improve its accuracy  and reliability.  

Siflow21 builds up a virtual representation of the vessels traffic in a port or complex  waterway with concurrent traffic. Based on the results of the analysis, the port community  can plan future investments in infrastructure (deepening or enlargement of navigation  channels, additional port access, etc.) or make decisions about the management or  operational optimization (new traffics, tidal window access, crossing rules, traffic priority, etc.).  

This new tool, based on process simulation using queuing theory, has relevance to port  agents related to maritime logistic transport: logistic operators, consultants, terminal  operators, shipping companies, port and maritime authorities, etc.  

The following solutions provided by Siflow21 are pointed out: definition of the maximum  capacity of a port; bottleneck identification (tide, meteorological conditions, Pilots, tugs,  etc.); optimization of ship access planning; congestion prediction due to traffic increase;  changes in infrastructure or new terminals; identify interferences between operations; and  evaluate the cost-benefit balance of the investments.