A simulation optimization approach to optimize dredger fleet schedule plan for dredging works in existing ports

Making an optimal dredger fleet scheduling (DFS) plan is difficult for dredging works in existing ports, where the dredging activities are interrupted by stochastic vessel traffic. Therefore, a simulation optimization (SO) approach is adopted to solve the DFS problem. In the SO approach, an agent-based simulation model is first developed to simulate the stochastic traffic flow and possible spatiotemporal traffic conflicts between vessels and dredgers. Then, this simulation model is integrated with an optimization model to find the optimal DFS plan with the objective of minimum total dredging equipment usage fees. Finally, the proposed SO approach is applied to a 4-dredging-job dredging work. The results demonstrate its applicability in identifying the bottlenecks of the DFS plan and finding the optimal DFS plan. This research contributes to gaining more insights into using the SO approach to provide decision making for dredging work planning under uncertainty.