Simulation-based assessment of the robustness of IP-based truck schedules for cross-docking operations
Résumé
A previously developed IP-based model for scheduling truck arrivals, truck departures, and pallet handling in a cross-docking platform is assessed using discrete-event simulation. Experimentation with a simulation model of basic cross-docking operations subjects the schedules to a more realistic environment (e.g., stochastic truck arrival times, pallets transfer times, truck content) than can be formulated in the IP model. Analysis of the simulation experiments, in terms of the schedules' performance and robustness under pragmatic conditions, provides insights to help refine the IP model.