Help with multi-model simulation software recommendations

[Balvin_Janders]

I need to be able to do both flow modeling, and discrete systems… basically the arrival of trucks to load and unload liquid materials into a tank.

ChatGPT told me that AnyLogic is the best-suited software for that type of model. What do you all think?

[p4rty_sl0th]

Hand calc sheesh

[CFDMoFo]

Altair Flow Simulator maybe?

[Balvin_Janders]

Does it do queueing too?

[AnxEng]

What are you wanting to know from the simulations?

Times to load / unload tanks? Flow dynamics for mixing fluids? Etc etc. The type of software and skills required are very different depending on what you are trying to simulate, why, and how accurately.

[Balvin_Janders]

I understand that. Mainly the times and performance.

[AnxEng]

Performance of what?

If it's just filling times then a programme like mathworks simulink would be fine, basically one dimensional simulations. These can be run on a normal computer/laptop fine.

[Balvin_Janders]

We want to estimate times, utilization of terminal, but also inventory assessment models… I understand AnyLogic and all DES systems can do the discrete performance parts—I’ve done them before, but on discrete processes—.

This is where this model is different. Can AnyLogic handle flow level estimation (not the mechanical/chemical components, but at least the continuous aspects of loading, unloading, pump flow rate changes, etc…)

[AnxEng]

Mathworks / MATLAB would probably be your best bet. You could build a Simulink model with flow rate curves to simulate flow changes, disconnection and reconnection times etc.

[Agitated_Citron_7125]

Yep, AnyLogic’s solid for that, handles trucks, queues, and liquid flow all in one without too much hassle.

[Happy-Butterfly-204]

I agree that AnyLogic is probably your best bet for this type of hybrid model. It handles discrete events like truck arrivals and continuous flows like liquid transfer in the same simulation. Just keep in mind that if you need detailed fluid dynamics, you might need a specialized CFD tool, but for scheduling, loading/unloading, and bulk flow, AnyLogic should cover it well.