An investigation of production center-based distribution networks and cross-dock models using open-source (JSL) to generate discrete event simulation models

The purpose of this study is to examine the advantages of having a cross-docking facility inside a supply chain. In this study, we use the open-source Java Simulation Library (JSL) to develop discrete event simulation models. We are also developing an object-oriented framework for supply chain modelling that will include cross-dock facility modelling. Receiving, sorting, and loading are all included in the crossdock facility models. Since cross-dock’s internal activities do not need operational performance, the modelling does not fully account for the cross-dock’s resources, including personnel and equipment counts. However, the flow, time delays, and inventory components are all simulated because the main emphasis is on how cross-docking impacts supply chain performance. Simulation tests are used to evaluate the performance of the object-oriented library and to compare the performance of two multi-echelon inventory networks with and without crossdocking, with the goal of identifying the key elements that have a significant impact on the performance of the two types of supply chains.