DYNAMIC SIMULATIONS OF TRANSPORTATION & STORAGE SYSTEMS
DCS develops its own dynamic simulation models and other computer programs for work in planning and optimizing distribution, transportation and storage systems. The company has also provided state-of-the-art, user-friendly programs to solve operational problems for some of the world's largest oil and chemical companies.
DCS Operations Research Consultant, Dr. Edward Pearsall, Ph.D. Princeton University, heads up this work and is a leading specialist in the field. His career experience in transportation system analysis is invaluable for quickly producing customized programs that appropriately address the relevant issues. His work is particularly effective in combination with DCS' first-hand experience in distribution, shipping and terminal operations.
Models may be required to study changes in operations or configuration of existing terminals and also for new facilities in various stages planning and construction. DCS has found that terminals and the requirements of clients in this field are sufficiently distinct to make it impractical to use an all purpose worksheet. The simulations instead are specifically designed for each situation but nevertheless evolve from common well proven design concepts and methodology. Examples include:
A mixed integer linear program to optimize the worldwide transportation, production and marketing network of the world's largest chemical transporter, with movements accounting for 10% of the world's deep-sea chemical trade. The program minimizes freight, chooses modes of transportation, recommends types of deep-sea contractual commitments and selects production schedules at various plants worldwide, as well as identifying which customers are served from each production location.
A project for a major OPEC producer/refiner involved a mixed integer linear program for development of long-term shipping strategies. The model optimized vessel size and trade routes for the client's fleet, together with ship acquisition and charter plans.
A program to optimize scheduling of coastal movements for a fleet of more than 20 vessels and incremental chartering requirements over 18 months for a distribution system sourced from 6 refineries.
A program to select optimum vessel options from a slate of existing ships and new buildings to serve an ammonia export project. The model explored foreseeable trading patterns for the exports, the impact of product exchanges and various levels of spot chartering.
A simulation model to optimize dry bulk product shipping, warehousing and transfer options in numerous Pacific locations. The model examined various network possibilities including a large central transshipment terminal.
A detailed simulation model to study contemplated changes in a company's integrated docks, storage and long distance pipeline system connected to three independent refineries.
Detailed dynamic simulation models were constructed to study both tankage and vessel requirements for several LNG facilities worldwide. Simulation models were also constructed for crude, LPG and product facilities. Each of these simulation models is custom built to reflect the individual idiosyncrasies of the target facility. The models take into account unexpected shutdowns due to weather, interruption of feedstock, unplanned maintenance and irregularities in both production and transportation schedules with a view to minimize cost and loss production capacity.
Other examples of logistics assignments undertaken by Dr. Pearsall include models for the Institute of Defense Analysis, the US Postal Rate Commission and studies of water, truck, rail and pipeline systems for various State and Federal agencies. If you require more information on dynamic simulation models and other computerized analytical programs of this type, do not hesitate to get in touch with DCS.