The use of simulation modeling for intermodal capacity assessment

Simulation modeling that has been successfully used to analyze intermodal capacity issues for a wide variety of facilities. Simulation technology provides an analysis mechanism for large intermodal facilities that are difficult to duplicate with other methods due to the interaction of many variables. Automation Associates, Inc. (AAI) is a simulation consulting services company that has been providing models for the transportation and intermodal industry for over ten years. AAI has developed many models to support major architecture and engineering projects as well as provide analysis support for intermodal operators. Through this experience, there have been modeling projects built to address different objectives based on the project requirements. A survey of the major categories of modeling projects based on their unique objectives and scope is presented in this paper. Additionally, two actual model implementations are discussed relative to this outline.