Design of methods and tools for the optimal planning of maritime terminal processes

This thesis focuses on the optimization of selected operational processes within a port container terminal. The work has been developed in close collaboration with PSA Genova Pra' terminal, one of the major container terminals in Northern Italy. The terminal is modeled as a system of systems, comprising the berth, yard, gate, and rail yard subsystems, which interact to achieve the common objective of efficiently handling containerized cargo flows. Within this framework, the thesis concentrates on the gate and rail subsystems, which represent the primary interfaces between the terminal and the inland transport network. The main focus is to optimize processes associated with these subsystems through the application of prediction, optimization, and simulation methodologies, while accounting for their interactions with other terminal components, such as the yard and berth. For the gate subsystem, the thesis proposes predictive models for container arrivals and departures by truck. The predicted demand is then analyzed to evaluate its impact on terminal congestion and emissions. Based on this analysis, optimization strategies are developed to proactively redistribute truck arrivals, with the aim of mitigating congestion in yard areas and reducing emission peaks on critical days. The rail subsystem is addressed from two perspectives: the optimization of train discharge operations and the assessment of overall rail yard capacity. Although initial analytical and optimization models are developed, the inherent complexity of the system necessitates simplifying assumptions. To overcome these limitations, detailed simulation models are implemented, allowing a more realistic representation of operational constraints and interactions. Simulation results demonstrate improved accuracy in capacity evaluation compared to purely mathematical approaches. Overall, the methodologies and results presented in this thesis provide a structured decision-support framework for port terminal operators, illustrating how integrated prediction, optimization, and simulation tools can effectively support operational planning. Furthermore, this work highlights the value of close collaboration between academic research and industry in addressing real-world operational challenges in port terminals.