Programming and graphical refinement of Tecnomatix Plant Simulation models

Abstract

Large discrete-event simulation models must represent the analysed logistics system in sufficient detail while remaining stable, transparent and computationally manageable. This paper presents programming and graphical optimization principles through a Tecnomatix Plant Simulation case study of a self-designed intermodal container terminal. The model contains truck and container generators, identification and control points, internal routes, nine loading areas, nine storage blocks, nine RTG-type cranes and several measurement objects. Programming optimization focused on replacing repeated object-specific conditions with generalized loops, name-based object selection and calculated indices; maintaining consistent reservation states; limiting the use of blocking wait conditions; separating truck, crane and storage processes; and initializing each experiment from an identical state. Graphical optimization focused on selecting an appropriate level of 3D detail and limiting imported CAD-based geometry. The study shows how these measures support model maintainability, extensibility, repeatability and operational stability. Since the original experiments did not include hardware-independent runtime benchmarking, the evaluation emphasizes structural and modelling consequences rather than claiming a numerical speed-up.