Efficient use of approaches for simulation modeling of logistics processes

Abstract

In industrialized countries, simulation of logistics chains is widely used and is considered a common part of projects to create new or renovate existing logistics chains. In this article, three approaches to simulation modeling of logistics systems were considered. The application of different approaches of simulation modeling to evaluate the efficiency of logistics processes was considered. The generalized structure of the simulation model of the logistics system functioning is presented. To implement it, the use of a three-level set of models using different paradigms of simulation modeling is proposed. The advantages of each of the approaches of simulation modeling of logistics processes were considered and outlined, in particular: system dynamics, discrete-situational approach, agent approach. The purpose of the models of each approach is determined: system dynamics - for designing the general structure of the logistics system; discrete-situational approach - to improve the parameters of individual logistics processes; agent approach - for an independent territorially distributed supply chain. For example, a generalized simulation model of the logistics system in the form of a "black box" was taken. An example of realization of the level of discrete-situational models in the form of three typical types of models is offered. In the simulation environment Arena developed a multi-product model to assess the basic performance of the logistics system: the level of service, the average level of stocks, the average level of delayed orders, the total number of lost or delayed orders.

In the course of further work it is planned to fill the proposed set of models using all three approaches of simulation. In general, we can conclude that the application of the advantages of each of the approaches to simulation is promising and can be used for a wide range of enterprises in different industries.