Summary and Learning Objectives 

The construction of a new airport terminal in a small town was recently completed and the airport management is interested in optimizing the type of aircraft to use for the flights departing from this terminal.  You are hired to perform this optimization analysis.  

After successful completion of this Immersive Simulation-Based Learning (I-SBL) module, the student will be able to: 

1. Collect the data needed to develop an optimization model by observing the system.  
2. Identify and define the decision variables in the optimization model. 
3. Formulate a real-world problem as a mathematical optimization model by defining the objective function and constraints. 
4. Implement and solve optimization models using an optimization software. 
5. Interpret the optimal solution and provide appropriate recommendations.  
6. Distinguish between different types of optimization models (linear programming, integer programming, etc.) 

Keywords 

Optimization, linear programming, integer programming, mathematical modeling, airport terminal 

Discipline(s) 

Industrial Engineering; Operations Research; Systems Engineering; Engineering Management 

Potential related courses/topics 

Deterministic Operations Research; Linear Programming; Integer Programming, Optimization 

Recommended educational level and audience 

Undergraduate and graduate; Introductory, nonmajors or majors 

Prerequisites 

Familiarity with linear algebra, basic understanding of optimization models and concepts, basic familiarity with an optimization software, and basic statistics. 

Necessary student resources 

Textbook/handout: None  

Software/hardware: A computer with Simio and an optimization software (Lindo, GAMS, CPLEX, etc.) installed on it. 

Immersion level 

The module supports both “low-immersion” (3D view on a typical display) and “high-immersion” (virtual reality using an Oculus Rift VR headset). 

Can it be used as a traditional PBL module without the immersive simulation model? 

Yes, but not directly. The module requires observing the immersive simulation model to estimate certain parameters of the model.  One could provide these parameters and turn this into a traditional PBL module. 

Recommended time frame and activity format 

Total time: 120 minutes (data collection: 40 min) 

Can be done as a homework assignment. 

Can be done in groups or individually. 

Download module material (problem description and immersive simulation model) 

Students:

Problem description
Simulation model (Simio file) – Desktop Version – Low Immersion
Simulation model (Simio file) – Virtual Reality Version – High Immersion

Instructors: Click here to request access to instructor copy.