Evaluating synchromodal transport with agent-based simulation

Abstract

Synchromodal transport implies using dynamically several modes of transport. Two relevant aspects of synchromodality are collaboration between actors and flexibility, aiming to make as many decisions as possible in real-time, imposing several changes on the logistic system's performance. This study aims to model the interactions between actors and their reactions to disruptions within the transport network. Using an agent-based modelling approach, the system is modelled as a collection of heterogeneous agents with complex interactions. Different collaboration scenarios and reaction strategies are modeled. The result shows improvement in the average cost, as the collaboration between logistics service providers and the flexibility of their response to disruptions increases. This model provides a testbed for stakeholders to assess different scenarios and ideas inexpensively and risk-free.