Meta-heuristic optimization and uncertainty management in digital twin simulators of complex port-logistics infrastructure

Like the other projects associated with the company Portel Logistics, this project focusses on improving port infrastructure management methods. Specifically, the project covers the development of methodologies and algorithms that enable better planning and operation of port access channels, such as the case of the port of Seville’s access channel along the River Guadalquivir. What is proposed is to model the access channel, and also to identify each and every one of the actors and conditioning factors involved in the logistical process. Furthermore, algorithms to improve the management and planning of the channel will be developed, paying particular attention to the development of predictive controlling techniques and the creation of optimization algorithms for the resolution of associated problems.

Chief researcher

Prof. Dr. D. Teodoro Álamo Canterero

Researcher

Juan Moreno Nadales

Location

University of Seville - Portel Logistic Technologies, S.A.

Summary of the proposal

Like the other projects associated with the company Portel Logistics, this project focusses on improving port infrastructure management methods. Specifically, the project covers the development of methodologies and algorithms that enable better planning and operation of port access channels, such as the case of the port of Seville’s access channel along the River Guadalquivir. What is proposed is to model the access channel, and also to identify each and every one of the actors and conditioning factors involved in the logistical process. Furthermore, algorithms to improve the management and planning of the channel will be developed, paying particular attention to the development of predictive controlling techniques and the creation of optimization algorithms for the resolution of associated problems.

Project goal

The main practical goals to be achieved during this doctoral thesis are the development of control methodologies and algorithms for the optimum management of movement in access channels to logistical ports. These could be divided into the following lines:

1.  Study, identification and modelling of the different sources of uncertainty that influence the logistical process.

2.  Development of simulators and models of the logistical process in this kind of port.

3. Development of methodologies of control for improving sailing operations.

Expected results and indicators

The main contributions to be achieved by writing this doctoral thesis, with a focus on the port-logistics setting at all times, are:

1. Contributions and advances in the design of predictive controllers according to the paradigms of robust predictive control, paying particular attention to the control of systems subject to time restrictions and dependent on the state of the system, always guaranteeing the recursive feasibility and stability of the system.

2. Contributions to improving and developing new methods for solving hybrid associated optimization problems by means of the development of analytical and heuristic techniques, with a view, at all times, to later efficient implementability on incorporated platforms.

3. Contributions to modelling based on systems data related to the port-logistics setting, especially data from those factors that affect movement in the channel, according to the new management and data processing paradigms.