AI and Simulation: A Powerful Combination for Smart Supply Chains

Expert Insights Series: AI and Digital Twins in shaping the future of Supply Chains.

AI and Simulation: A Powerful Combination for Smart Supply Chains

As AI continues to revolutionize industries, its integration with simulation tools is opening new doors for efficiency, risk management, and decision-making in supply chains. We spoke with Kees van der Klauw, former Chairman of the Netherlands AI Coalition and former Research Executive at Philips, about the synergy between AI and simulation, and what the future holds for smart supply chains.

Can you share your background and how you became involved in AI and innovation?

My career started at Philips, where I was involved in digital transformations across various domains—semiconductors, LCD displays, TV innovations, and LED lighting systems. Over a decade ago, in Philips Research, we already explored AI applications such as automated design of electronic circuits and customer preference analysis. Later, I played a key role in establishing AIOTI (now a leading IoT and Edge Computing initiative) and led the strategy and development of the Netherlands AI Coalition. This coalition now consists of over 500 parties and nearly 2,000 experts working on AI applications across multiple industries.

What is simulation? What is AI? How do they complement each other?

Simulation is used to predict outcomes in scenarios that are too complex, costly, or risky to test in real life. With advancements in computing power, we can now create highly detailed simulations, but they still require strong domain knowledge. AI, on the other hand, is built on statistical models trained on massive datasets. While simulation models are generally based on known physical principles, AI finds correlations within data, sometimes revealing hidden insights. The great opportunity we now have is not to replace the one with the other but to augment simulation models (which usually have a very limited number of parameters) with AI algorithms that add statistical intelligence on effects that until now were too complex or simply unnoticed to include in simulation tools.

Where does AI running on a digital twin differ from AI running on raw input data?

Many AI models are trained on large datasets to detect patterns and correlations, but this does not necessarily mean they understand causal relationships. Training AI solely on raw data requires extensive resources, while digital twins integrate domain knowledge, providing faster, more accurate, and explainable insights. By combining AI with simulation models, we leverage expert knowledge for efficient and precise system behavior predictions. This hybrid approach enables accurate manufacturing simulations while accounting for unpredictable factors like human behavior or equipment failures, ultimately leading to smarter decision-making.

How is simulation shaping supply chain management, and how will AI enhance it?

Simulation has already revolutionized the supply chain industry, particularly in material handling and manufacturing, where internal goods flow management relies heavily on simulation models. Today, these models extend across multiple production sites, enabling integrated and efficient operations. Smart Industry initiatives further enhance this by facilitating programmable manufacturing lines where production stages communicate seamlessly. In complex assembly lines with multiple suppliers, ship-to-line logistics has become a standard practice.

Optimizing logistics—covering warehouse space utilization, cycle times, time-critical deliveries, loading, transport costs, and more—is achievable through simulation. However, a key challenge remains: various stages, sites, machines, and transport systems are often managed by different entities and suppliers. Since these elements are not always part of a unified simulation model, fine-tuning is essential to ensure accuracy. To achieve this, models must be parametrically adjustable, tuned by domain experts, and supported by strong data-sharing collaboration across the value chain. This need for seamless data exchange becomes even more critical with AI integration.

With advancements in AI, we will soon be able to create highly accurate digital twins of complex logistics flows—both within individual companies and across entire supply chains. These digital twins will not only drive efficiency and support risk analysis but also act as real-time decision-making companions during supply chain disruptions. Beyond optimizing logistics, AI-powered simulation will contribute to sustainability by tracking CO₂ footprints, improving reliability and flexibility, and ensuring compliance with regulations.

How can the combination of AI and simulation improve decision-making?

Simulation provides outcomes based on set parameters, but human decision-makers must still interpret the results, considering aspects like regulations, financial risks, and operational constraints. AI can enhance this process by augmenting simulation engines with AI models (not replacing them), creating comprehensive digital twins that support real-time, data-driven decision-making.

AI is not just an efficiency tool – it is a competitive necessity.

What industries are leading the way in AI and simulation innovation?

Advancements are happening across many industries, but the most impactful innovations transform tedious yet expertise-driven tasks. Key sectors benefiting from AI include logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, cybersecurity, and energy. AI is optimizing everything from transportation flows to medical diagnostics, driving efficiency and accuracy. There is also an impressive contribution by AI in advertising and marketing and administrative processes.

However, because data usage is subject to privacy and security regulations, AI adoption is progressing fastest in less sensitive areas—focusing on machines rather than personal data. In supply chain management, the potential is enormous, offering opportunities to enhance efficiency, resilience, and decision-making on an unprecedented scale.

What excites you most about AI developments in simulation software?

While there is a lot of hype around generative AI and large language models, I believe the most meaningful advancements will come from dedicated machine learning models tailored to specific fields such as supply chain management, healthcare diagnostics and drug development, education, security, energy, and transportation. Machine Learning will drive major improvements in efficiency, quality, and cost reduction by automating tedious human tasks. Additionally, I foresee AI-powered simulation tools becoming more efficient, running on small-footprint systems rather than energy-intensive data centers.

This could mean local servers within companies or even AI-driven IoT devices embedded in equipment or transport vehicles. Such a distributed approach offers significant advantages, including enhanced cybersecurity, resilience, and in energy management, making AI adoption more sustainable and practical across industries.

How do you see AI contributing to sustainability in supply chain operations?

Sustainability is complex, often requiring trade-offs between different environmental and economic factors. AI models can process large-scale, statistical data to develop more holistic sustainability strategies. By integrating AI with simulation, businesses can automate environmental impact assessments, optimize energy usage, and improve waste management.

The great opportunity we now have is not to replace the one with the
other but to augment simulation models (which usually have a very
limited number of parameters) with AI algorithms that add statistical
intelligence on effects that until now were too complex or simply
unnoticed to include in simulation tools.

What are the biggest challenges companies face when integrating AI into their systems?

The primary challenge is the availability and quality of data to train AI systems. Many companies struggle to collect and extract meaningful insights from dispersed systems. Key data—such as machine uptime, cycle times, and waiting times for transport robots—often remains siloed and underutilized.

Another challenge is acquiring the right expertise. Companies typically need to bring in data scientists or partner with startups, as existing personnel may lack the specialized skills for AI projects. At the same time, experienced employees are vital for identifying high-value use cases and offering domain knowledge.

Finally, strong management commitment is crucial. Leaders must educate themselves on AI’s broader implications, including dependencies on external platforms and control over key business processes, rather than simply following trends.

What key skills should companies develop to maximize AI in simulation?

Companies should first master simulation for their core processes, ensuring that AI enhances rather than replaces their models. Additionally, data management expertise is crucial, as AI depends on high-quality data. Businesses must also educate employees on AI’s role helping them in their daily work, fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making.

With advancements in AI, we will soon be able to create highly accurate digital twins of complex logistics flows—both within individual companies and across entire supply chains.

What are the biggest pitfalls executives should watch for?

Executives must differentiate between primary and secondary processes when applying AI. For example, using AI for marketing content generation is a low-risk secondary process, while using AI in core operations—such as supply chain optimization—requires deep expertise and business control. Another pitfall is relying too heavily on external AI platforms, which can create long-term dependencies instead of offering real competitive advantages for one’s business.

What if companies do not adopt AI technology?

AI is not just an efficiency tool—it is a competitive necessity. Companies that fail to adopt AI risk losing market relevance as AI-powered competitors optimize costs, mitigate risks, and unlock new business models. However, adopting AI should be strategic, ensuring it enhances core competencies rather than creating dependencies.

Final Thoughts

AI and simulation are not competing technologies—they are complementary tools that, when combined, create more accurate, scalable, and intelligent digital twins. As businesses navigate an increasingly complex and unpredictable world, AI-enhanced simulation will be a game-changer for supply chain optimization, sustainability, and decision-making.

With AI advancing rapidly, companies must embrace innovation, invest in expertise, and develop a data-driven strategy to stay ahead in the ever-evolving supply chain landscape.

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Digital Twins Revolution: Transforming Airport Management

Digital Twins Revolution: Transforming Airport Management by InControl and Business Partners

The Evolving Aviation Landscape

The global aviation industry is soaring back to pre-pandemic levels, and the future promises even more expansion. In North America, the FAA predicts that U.S. commercial air travel will grow at a steady 2.6% annually, surpassing 1 billion passengers by 2033. Meanwhile, Dubai International Airport is preparing to accommodate over 90 million passengers annually by 2026, reinforcing the Middle East’s role as a pivotal global hub.

Across the Pacific, China’s aviation market is on track to become the world’s largest by 2035, with passenger numbers tripling compared to pre-pandemic levels. Europe, despite its mature infrastructure, anticipates a 50% surge in air travel by 2040—posing challenges for already congested facilities. Latin America, too, is experiencing unprecedented growth. Mexico, for instance, is set to double its passenger movements to 137 million by 2043.

Yet, this expansion does not come without its challenges. The aviation industry is undergoing a transformation: the shift toward net-zero emissions, the emergence of electric aircraft and advanced air mobility, and a new era of passenger expectations—all demanding smarter, more agile airport management.

The Strategic Agility Imperative

Airport operators must embrace a new kind of strategic agility to navigate these evolving demands. This means not just reacting to change but staying ahead of it:

  • They must anticipate capacity needs across all operational areas, ensuring they’re ready for fluctuating passenger volumes.
  • When disruptions arise—whether from weather, security incidents, or staffing shortages—airports must adapt quickly and efficiently to minimize delays.
  • Airports can no longer operate in isolation. Coordinating at a network level, rather than optimizing a single facility, will be key to sustaining smooth global travel.
  • The airports that will thrive are those that can continuously evolve, leveraging real-time intelligence to enhance operations.

From Reactive to Proactive: A Data-Driven Approach to Airport Management

Imagine an airport where every decision—whether about passenger flow, baggage handling, or security checkpoints—is driven by real-time data. Instead of reacting to problems as they arise, airport managers anticipate bottlenecks before they happen. Delays are minimized, staff is deployed efficiently, and passenger journeys are seamless.

This is the impact of Total Airport Management (TAM), supported by Digital Twin technology. By integrating real-time data from airside, landside, and terminal operations, airports can transition from a fragmented approach to a unified, data-informed ecosystem.

With predictive analytics, an airport can foresee potential congestion points—whether at security lines or immigration—and resolve them before passengers even notice an issue. Scenario modelling allows operators to test different strategies in a risk-free virtual environment, evaluating how changes in staffing or gate assignments might impact efficiency.

Cross-functional teams gain a shared situational awareness, ensuring that from the control tower to the check-in counter, everyone is working towards the same operational goals. Performance indicators are continuously tracked, aligning airport management with broader strategic objectives.

The Seamless Journey: Engineering Exceptional Passenger Experiences

For today’s PAX, efficiency isn’t enough—they want a seamless, stress-free experience from booking their flight to arriving at their final destination. But what does that really mean?

Consider a PAX arriving at a major international airport. Instead of long queues, they breeze through security, thanks to biometric verification. Their luggage is tracked in real-time via an app, giving them confidence it will arrive at their final destination. Smart wayfinding guides them intuitively through the airport, eliminating the confusion of navigating a complex terminal.

Waiting time becomes value-added time—instead of frustration, the passenger enjoys well-designed lounges, personalized retail options, and entertainment experiences tailored to their interests. Even during disruptions, airports maintain service quality through proactive rescheduling and instant communication.

Digital Twin Simulation for Airports: A Game-Changer in Decision-Making

To make this seamless experience a reality, airports need powerful tools that help them predict and prepare for any scenario. This is where InControl’s digital twin simulation comes in.

With over 26 years of expertise in airport operations, InControl offers an advanced simulation platform that allows airport operators to test, visualize, and optimize every aspect of their ecosystem before making real-world investments.

Using historical data, real-time inputs, and predictive algorithms, this digital twin provides a risk-free environment to experiment with changes before implementing them. Whether it’s baggage handling, border control, cargo operations, or multimodal transportation, the platform ensures airports operate at peak efficiency.

Key capabilities:

Comprehensive system modeling
Digital representations of all airport subsystems allow simulations of complex interactions, such as how passenger flow affects baggage handling or how infrastructure constraints impact turnaround times

Predictive scenario planning
By analyzing historical trends and real-time data, airports can forecast the impact of operational strategies before executing them.

Resource optimization
Airports can fine-tune staffing, equipment deployment, and facility usage to balance operational efficiency with passenger comfort.

Future Ready
With this technology, airports can confidently enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve passenger satisfaction—all while preparing for the future.

The Power of Integrated Expertise:
A Collaborative Approach to Solving Complex Challenges

Transforming airport operations isn’t just about technology—it requires the right mix of expertise. That’s why InControl Enterprise Dynamics has partnered with Boosten Consultancy, EDUMATECH, and Mijksenaar, creating a powerhouse team that combines:

InControl

Cutting-edge simulation technology

Boosten Consultancy

Strategic consulting to align digital twin insights with business objectives

Mijksenaar

Human-centered design to optimize passenger flow and airport usability

Together, this partnership delivers both data-driven insights and strategic decision-making support, ensuring that every change benefits both operational efficiency and human experience.

At an operational level, real-time data integrated with predictive models enables airports to continuously adjust staff schedules, equipment deployment, and facility usage—ensuring resources are allocated where they’re needed most.

And most importantly, the human element is never forgotten. Whether designing intuitive wayfinding systems, creating efficient work environments for airport staff, or engaging stakeholders in long-term planning, this approach ensures that airports remain people-centric, despite their increasing complexity.

The Way Forward: Building the Airports of Tomorrow, Today

As global airports face mounting pressure to expand, enhance sustainability, and improve passenger experiences, digital twin technology presents a transformative solution. By leveraging advanced simulation, strategic consulting, and human-centred design, airport operators can build facilities that are not only efficient and profitable but also adaptable to the ever-changing demands of the future.

Through cross-disciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge technology, InControl and its partners are shaping the next generation of airports—ones that seamlessly connect people with their destinations while delivering exceptional experiences along the way.

Contact information

To learn more about how digital twin technology and total airport management can transform your airport operations, connect with the experts:

Frank van Poeteren
InControl Enterprise Dynamics
Frank.van.Poeteren@incontrolsim.com

Geert Boosten
Boosten Consultancy
Geert.Boosten@boostenconsultancy.nl

Aad Kalkman
Mijksenaar
Kalkman@mijksenaar.com

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Enhancing Customer Experience: A Collaborative Effort at Ski Dubai

Enhancing Customer Experience: A Collaborative Effort at Ski Dubai

For over 14 years, InControl and Mijksenaar have combined their expertise in wayfinding and simulation software, delivering cutting-edge solutions for venues of various sizes and purposes. One notable project resulting from this collaboration is enhancing the customer experience, optimizing the operational processes, and improving sales at Ski Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, with Majid Al Futtaim as our client.

Ski Dubai is part of the Mall of the Emirates, one of the largest shopping malls in the world, located in Dubai. The unique indoor ski facility was developed by the Majid Al Futtaim Group, which also owns and operates the Mall of the Emirates and all indoor ski facilities in MENA (Middle East and North Africa). The facility features an impressive indoor ski area of 22.500 square meters for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts and a snow park for additional recreational activities. The indoor facility features an 85-meter-high indoor mountain with 5 slopes of varying steepness and difficulty, including a 400-meter-long run; the world’s first indoor black diamond run. Ski Dubai is a unique attraction, and its strategic location within the mall makes it easily accessible to locals and tourists, contributing to its popularity. It has been ranked number one among the World’s Best Indoor Ski Resort for six years in a row!

The Project Goal

Ski Dubai’s primary goal is to provide visitors with a seamless, personal, immersive, and unique experience. However, challenges arose during peak seasons, with reports of extended queues in the Ski Dubai and adjacent areas in the shopping mall. In response, Ski Dubai enlisted the support of Mijksenaar and InControl for the ‘quick enhancements’ project. Mijksenaar developed a new wayfinding concept, while InControl collaborated to develop insights and implement improvements through a dynamic visitors and staff Digital Twin Simulation model.

The Project Approach

The Digital Twin Simulation Model

With over 35 years of expertise, InControl has been developing Digital Twin Simulation Software solutions. The software significantly contributes to the decision-making process, operational monitoring, control, and performance optimization. These solutions are integral throughout all project phases, from system design to implementation and operations.

In the context of Ski Dubai, InControl utilized its Crowd Management Simulation Software to create a Digital Twin, serving as a robust tool that utilized various types of data for making informed decisions about the entire venue. Using the digital twin model, Ski Dubai was able to identify bottlenecks and explore potential improvements, such as adjusting layouts of counters and kiosks, changing and relaxing areas, infrastructure, routing, staff capacity planning, and visitor flows. The goal was to optimize specific aspects of the layout or process, ultimately enhancing the overall performance.

The dynamic pedestrian digital twin covered various activities within the Ski Dubai complex, including arrival, orientation, e-ticketing purchases, ski- and snowboard equipment rental, changing rooms, and visits to the cold area. The model offered valuable insights into queue length, waiting times, total throughput time, high densities, area occupancy, user experiences, equipment sales in the shop, and more.

The insights derived from this dynamic model empowered Ski Dubai to create a more seamless and efficient customer experience in the warm area. This collaboration with InControl was a strategic approach to addressing specific challenges and elevating visitors’ satisfaction, particularly during peak seasons.

digital twin wayfinding simulation
digital twin wayfinding simulation

Figure 1: Digital Twin Simulation Model showcasing the Admission Area. On the left, is a 3D visualization of the area; on the right, is a density map highlighting the distribution within the admission area.

Creating a Journey through Wayfinding 

Mijksenaar’s multidisciplinary designers were brought in to ensure a stress-free, enjoyable, and consistent journey could be promised to every visitor. With 38 years of wayfinding experience, Mijksenaar assessed the location holistically, looking at the complete journey from the visitors leaving their homes, ordering tickets, arriving at the location, queuing, ticketing, changing, slopes, and dining to their return home. The wayfinding solutions are built on the Mijksenaar ‘ONE’ Principle: Orientation, Navigation, and Experience, and are tailored to each specific situation. 

At home
Getting there
In the Mall of the Emirates
Entering Ski Dubai
Orientation & Navigation
Tickets
Ski Gear & Clothing
Changing Area
Entrances

Figure 2: The user journey from a wayfinding perspective.

By combining Mijksenaar’s ONE Principle with insights from InControl’s Digital Twin model, Mijksenaar conducted the following analyses and implemented a complete wayfinding review:

  • Interior architectural updates to reorganize the lobby, changing and queueing areas for smoother flows 
  • Streamlining a complex journey to just 5 simple steps with the ‘5 Steps to the Snow!’ concept, managing visitor expectations and reducing queuing 
  • Analyzed cultural needs by changing the combination of choices and offers given
  • Reducing visual clutter and unnecessary choices with straightforward, clear, and intuitive wayfinding 
  • Creating tertiary spaces where people can gather to spend time with each other before or after the visit  
  • Website synchronization, ensuring all terminology, offers, branding, and navigation was consistent both online and in the physical space 
  • Bespoke wayfinding signage.

The Mijksenaar team utilized natural wayfinding principles to manipulate the orientation and navigation of the space, simplifying entrance, desk, and queue areas to cut down on time for visitors. UX design ensured all communication was visually compatible for every visitor at Ski Dubai, connecting and reaffirming the brand. These changes manifested into a complete update of the entire venue, vastly improving the guests’ experiences.

Figure 3: Renovated admission area.

The Results

The collaborative initiative addressed specific challenges and led to a comprehensive transformation, resulting in a future-proof, scalable, enriched, and more enjoyable experience for visitors at Ski Dubai.

The collaborative effort yielded highly positive results for Ski Dubai: 

  • Implementing the digital twin and new wayfinding concept significantly improved the customer experience, increasing Net Promoter Score (NPS) by 20%, surpassing Ski Dubai’s goal
  • A 17% increase in sales at shops and a 10% expansion of open space, enhancing spatial awareness and understanding. 
  • A significant decrease in peak and queuing times.
  • The ability to predict and proactively provide extra guest services.
  • An increased sense of community among visitors, increasing positive employee and visitor reviews 
  • Opportunities for rental spaces in the warm zone. 
  • More, and better interactions with visitors, focusing on experiences rather than operational questions.

The cooperation with the Ski Dubai Team and the recognized knowledge, experiences, and simulation software of both InControl and Mijksenaar guaranteed this project as well as the results, delivered within the committed scope, planning, and budget. We are looking forward to continuing the cooperation with Mijksenaar to the Majid Al Futtaim Group and other leading companies.

– Frank van Poeteren, CCO of InControl Enterprise Dynamics

This project shows that good wayfinding and spatial design adds significant, measurable value to a service. Visitor experience has skyrocketed, and the operational process has improved dramatically. This means not only bottom-line growth for a more efficient organization but especially top-line growth with new customers and better-fitting service. This has been made possible by the cooperation between Mijksenaar InControl, a partnership we are so proud of.

– Aad Kalkman, Managing Director, Mijksenaar

In conclusion, the collaborative efforts between InControl and Mijksenaar have not only transformed Ski Dubai into a seamless customer experience but also set a benchmark for future operations and improvement actions in enhancing visitor satisfaction. By combining cutting-edge simulation software with innovative wayfinding solutions, Ski Dubai has seen a remarkable leap forwards in customer flow, spatial awareness, and overall enjoyment. This success underscores the value of strategic partnerships and the application of advanced technologies in shaping exceptional experiences.

For inquiries about how our solutions can benefit your venue, please reach out to us:

Enhancing Safety and Security: InControl’s TruVenue Digital Twin Application for Sports & Entertainmen

Enhancing Safety and Security: InControl’s TruVenue Digital Twin Application for Sports & Entertainment

TruVenue Digital Twin Application logo

Crowd and traffic management, safety and security are “hot topics” for those who are involved in the event industry nowadays. Attacks on soft targets and crowded places represent a significant challenge. Marketing and revenue generation are also high on the list of challenges. Our Digital Twin Software Application for Sports and Entertainment,TruVenue’ is the solution for these challenges!

TruVenue is our NCS4 award-winning application enables users to simulate the entire fan journey, from purchasing their ticket to experiencing the event, and returning home. At InControl, we understand the importance of providing a non-technical, user-friendly interface for venue and event staff to use on a daily basis. As we learned that one-off simulation modeling is limited to specific events, particularly in terms of ingress/egress, circulation, or evacuation/sheltering.

TruVenue incorporates dynamic data such as ticketing, transit, parking, entry, movement, and sales, enriching each simulation of the digital twin.

“ TruVenue was developed as a powerful tool for venue and event managers to safely and efficiently operate successful events!”

TruVenue application at a live event

Key Features and Benefits

TruVenue is a tool for fan enhancement, risk prediction/mitigation, cost savings and revenue generation. It begins by creating a digital twin based on your venue’s CAD/BIM data, incorporating details like capacity, obstacles, and layout. The application is then tailored to suit your specific venue requirements.

The success of a sports/entertainment enterprise event/venue can be measured by fan engagement, team/entertainer performance, revenue generation and a level of optimization of the venue that hosts the events. The challenges that come with optimization of venues vary from the design of the building construction/management (infrastructure) to operational issues such as pedestrian, traffic, transportation and logistics flows in and around the venue.

Through simulation, TruVenue helps visualize the impact of venue and event activities, including the movement of people, equipment, and operational processes, aiding in identifying potential procedural failures.

InControl’s TruVenue application gives you the ability to model and simulate infrastructures at various levels of detail, allowing you to analyze the behavior of these infrastructures under both routine and hazardous conditions. This includes scenarios such as traffic congestion, evacuations/sheltering, bombing/bomb threats, active shooter, terrorism, vehicle ramming, adverse weather, congestion during ingress, and equipment/supply logistics.

Simulations aid in visualizing risks, threats and in designing procedures for all staff and first responders, making it an excellent training, preparation, and evaluation tool. Simulations also serve to satisfy fire marshals’ requirements for validating safe person capacities, evacuation/sheltering times and prevent crushing.

“TruVenue serves as a predictor, operational tool, training aid, and evaluation tool, applicable before, during, and after events.”

Capabilities of the Application

With TruVenue, you have the option to change floor seating and obstacles yourself (once built), especially for stage layouts. You can load any earlier used settings to prefill the input on the following screens or you can click ‘Next’ to guide you through all relevant settings for the chosen scenario. The orange box represents event types that depend on your specific venue, while the blue box illustrates different scenarios within your venue. The specifics, of course, depend on the characteristics of the venue.

Different standard outputs are easily accessible by pressing the corresponding buttons based on the following settings for ingress, circulation, egress or emergency egress or sheltering:

  • Spectator Demographics (with auto defaults)
  • Seats Sold & Locations (could auto load from ticket seller)
  • Arrival Patterns/Fill Rate & Screening Times (by section)
  • Internal Passageways/Portal (open/close or direction setting)
true venue digital twin application interface
Application Interface

Once the selections have been made and the simulation run various Outputs are available to pick:

TruVenue Digital Twin Application interface

2D & 3D Viewer

TruVenue Digital Twin Application interface

Density Maps

TruVenue Digital Twin Application interface

Travel time maps

TruVenue Digital Twin Application interface

Evacution & Shelter Times

TruVenue Digital Twin Application interface

Flow Counter

TruVenue Digital Twin Application interface

Level of Service

InControl’s TruVenue Application enables Sports & Entertainment Venues/Events to improve decision making processes and predictability through the following capabilities:

  • Pedestrian Ingress/Egress/Circulation/Routing
  • Evacuation/Sheltering
  • Queuing/Magnetometers/Ticket Scanners
  • Crowd Crush
  • Fire Marshal Capacity Testing
  • Issue Trend Analysis (Slip/Falls, medical, fights)
  • Safety Act Planning & Validation
  • E-Bomb Card (Bombing Impact Anticipation & Response Planning)
  • Active Shooter (Anticipation & Response Planning)
  • Vehicle Ramming (Anticipation & Response Planning)
  • New Venue or Renovation Planning
  • Commercialization (Concession/Activation/Sponsorships Placements)
  • Emergency Vehicle Placement
  • AED/First Aid Placement
  • Staff Planning/Placement
  • Item Placement (Fencing/Bike Rack/Bollards/Rope Line, etc)
  • Event Planning/Risk Assessment
  • Site/Venue/Event Planning
  • Traffic/Parking Control
  • Staff Training/Exercises (Realistic Visualization)
  • Automatic CAD/BIM import
  • Open API for Data Ingestion & Analysis
  • Video Camera Integration
  • Line of Sight (Camera placement)
  • Realtime Tracking (WiFi, Geo)(Staff, Spectators)

TruVenue empowers you to predict and manage a wide range of scenarios effectively. Whether you’re planning a new venue or optimizing an existing one, TruVenue provides the tools to safeguard stadiums, arenas, festivals, performing arts centers, transit hubs, and more.

Curious about how TruVenue can benefit your organization? Please contact us!

“With InControl TruVenue Digital Twin Application you can predict and control all kinds of scenarios, or as we say: It enables you to Experience the Future Today!

Pedestrian Dynamics® 4.3 released!

Pedestrian Dynamics® 4.3 released!

We are excited to announce the release of Pedestrian Dynamics® 4.3, the latest version of our crowd management simulation software application. Pedestrian Dynamics® is designed to create and execute large crowd simulation models used in (complex) infrastructures, enabling evaluation of the performance and safety of your operations in every phase of the life cycle – from design to operations.

The new features of Pedestrian Dynamics® 4.3 are focused on enhancing user-friendliness, data analysis, realism, and visualization.

The new features of Pedestrian Dynamics® 4.3 include:

  • Easy import and export data from Excel
  • New elements: Fence, Stanchion, Roadblock, and Staffing
  • Various user-friendliness improvements.

Easy Import and export data from Excel

Creating crowd scenarios often requires data that’s already available in Excel worksheets, and many users are familiar with analyzing data in Excel. With Pedestrian Dynamics®, all types of data can be stored in User Tables, including model inputs and various types of useful analysis outputs. The software now includes functionality that makes it easy to connect User Tables to Excel sheets for importing and exporting data. Simply set up the connection, and with a single click, you can import or export all the data you need.

Pedestrian Dynamics® now includes general import and export functions that enable more advanced import and export tasks. This Excel connection can speed up model building and especially scenario analyses. Testing different scenarios and comparisons between specific KPIs can be set up in an Excel that is fed with outputs from Pedestrian Dynamics®. This feature enhances the user experience and adds value to the model when simulating simple to complex infrastructures.

New elements: Fence, Stanchion, Roadblock, and Staffing

Crowd models play a critical role in analyzing and predicting the impact of crowd dynamics on events. They are used to inform and discuss crowd management strategies with stakeholders, and to train staff before and evaluate their performance after events.

To enhance the realism and visualization of Pedestrian Dynamics®, we have added new elements: Fence, Stanchion, Roadblock, and Staff. These elements are frequently used in large events and can significantly impact the flow of crowds. By incorporating them into the software, we improve the communication value of the software, making it easier to analyze, discuss, and train staff on the placement of these elements in and around the venue.

Moreover, the new tab “Events” has been added to the Model Layout window, which enables users to select and draw the new elements in their environment. The 3D visualization of these elements takes the powerful visualization and communication of your model to the next level, making it more accessible and understandable for all stakeholders.

User-friendliness improvements

Various other small improvements have been made:

  • The elevator has a new property offset time and the default location distribution has been adjusted.
  • Easily select a selection of height layers to draw an output map.
  • Disable the DrawInterior of an obstacle when a 3D model is attached to it.

Download our release highlights document to read more details about the new improvements in Pedestrian Dynamics® 4.3. 

Curious about what Pedestrian Dynamics® can do for you, your company, and your customers? Please contact us, or try our software free of charge.

InControl Enterprise Dynamics appoints new CEO for EMEA

InControl Enterprise Dynamics appoints new CEO for EMEA.

Woerden, January 31st 

Louis Schijve, the founder and owner of InControl Enterprise Dynamics, is stepping down as CEO of the company after a period of 34 years. The board of directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Geert-Jan van Nunen as the new CEO for the EMEA region. Geert-Jan is a seasoned manager with a proven track record of implementation and growth of software and platform technologies in the telecom and automotive industries.

Before joining InControl, Geert-Jan held various management positions. Understanding technology to accelerate business growth has been central to his career. Experienced with IoT, AI, platform technology, and integrated software systems. Previously he grew businesses from scratch to multimillion revenues. In his most recent role, he was responsible for the growth of a German AI technology scale-up.

geert-jan van nunen

Geert-Jan van Nunen. CEO InControl Enterprise Dynamics EMEA region.

His mission is growing InControl as a partner of choice for customers that use digital simulation and digital twins as tools to better plan and operate their core processes; and to establish InControl as the leading emulation and simulation software provider for large-scale and complex operations.

“We are happy to have Geert-Jan van Nunen as the new CEO for EMEA. He is a proven leader with the vision and experience to expand on the success that InControl has been building over the past 34 years and take the company into its next phase of growth and innovation.”

 –  Louis Schijve, Founder and Chairman of the board of directors  – 

About InControl Enterprise Dynamics

InControl Enterprise Dynamics is a global software company that provides simulation software and services for the safety and sustainability of critical infrastructures such as warehouses, manufacturing plants, logistics, airports, railroads, border control, public events, etc. By accurately simulating the flow of people and goods we enable our clients to better plan and optimize their core business processes making their business more efficient, robust, and safer. InControl’s Simulation Platform delivers customers essential insights to continuously improve and optimize complex infrastructures and physical business processes.

Find more information about our software here.

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Simulation contributes to the future of Rail Transport

Simulation contributes to the future of Rail Transport

For over 30 years, InControl develops innovative customized railway-traffic simulators and is an expert in railway simulation. InControl’s simulation software platform enables the development of applications. One example is a high-performance railway application designed, built, and maintained by InControl for organizations responsible for rail infrastructures and passengers. It supports the decisions related to system (future) performances and the effects of innovations. At this moment rail organizations have to implement efficiency and security-related programs like ERTMS*, ATO*, or TMS* and passenger flows at public transport hubs in cities and metropole areas.

InControl’s Dutch railway simulator application called “FRISO” is developed for ProRail, the Dutch infrastructure company. It allows users to simulate and visualize large networks on a microscopic level including tracks, switches, signals, etc. The application supports users by automatic generation of a complete simulation model based on several databases. The benefits are valid data and information provisioning in a short timeframe. Visualization of the (sub)systems, insights into conflicting planning of rolling stock and staff, and multi-organizational and discipline staff training are part of the application services.

ERTMS affects the entire rail sector, so collaboration is a must. How does that work in practice? Last month, Joris Steneker, Team Manager Public Transport at InControl, and Dick Middelkoop, Program Manager ProRail Innovation, were invited by ERTMS Flash to discuss the long-lasting relationship. The original interview is in Dutch, for the English version please click here.

Source: Text Eveline Bets and foto Fokke Eenhoorn

Het ideale samenwerkingsmodel (geen simulatie, maar realiteit)
ERTMS raakt de hele spoorsector, dus samenwerken is een must. Hoe gaat dat in de praktijk?

Source: Fokke Eenhoorn

Hoe kennen jullie elkaar?
Dick
: “Als programmamanager Modelontwikkeling houd ik me bezig met de ontwikkeling van simulatiemodellen en optimalisatievraagstukken. ProRail heeft een lange geschiedenis in simulaties, maar onze software was niet goed ingericht op de steeds complexere ontwikkelingen. Toen we jaren geleden op zoek gingen naar een flexibeler systeem met meer mogelijkheden, kwamen we terecht bij een platform dat is ontwikkeld door InControl.”

Joris: “Ik kwam er later bij, in 2006 geloof ik, toen ik als teammanager Public Transport verantwoordelijk werd voor simulatiemodellen voor onder andere het spoor.”


Aan welke simulatie(s) werken jullie op dit moment?
Joris
: “Actueel is een groot project waarin we de ERTMS-gebruikersprocessen hebben nagebouwd in een simulator. Doel is het valideren van die processen, en betere communicatie tussen machinist en treindienstleider. De simulator bootst de treindienst na in een soort 3D-omgeving van het spoor.”

Dick: “Het gaat dus om testen of we het goed hebben uitgedacht, nog niet om het trainen van de mensen die ermee gaan werken. Dat komt later.”


Kunnen jullie het doel van de samenwerking omschrijven?
Dick
: “Ons doel is dat we op een efficiënte manier de toekomst van het spoor in beeld brengen en zo kunnen beleven, en dat we inzicht krijgen in die complexiteit.”

Joris: “Ja, dus gezamenlijk dingen beproeven en ontwikkelen. Dat is ook de kracht van simulatie. Een mooi voorbeeld is dat we na zo’n sessie van machinisten en treindienstleiders terugkregen: ‘Nou, dat ga ik in de praktijk nooit zo doen.’”

Dick: “Of omgekeerd: ‘Dit scenario is niet goed, kunnen we dat nog aanpassen?’ Dat vond ik een mooie les. Het werkt dus twee kanten op. Zo verbeteren we de praktijk.”

Joris: “En daar worden we heel blij van!”

Kom je ook knelpunten tegen en zo ja: hoe lossen jullie dit op?
Dick
: “Ja, mijn werk is een leuke, maar uitdagende puzzel. Dat vraagt om chemie in de samenwerking en gebruik maken van elkaars kwaliteiten.”

Joris: “ProRail stelt ons soms uitdagende vragen. Bijvoorbeeld: ontwikkel een wiskundig optimalisatie-algoritme voor Automatic Train Operation. Dan is het best spannend of we dat ook kunnen leveren.”

Dick: “Meestal leidt het tot goede resultaten. Of het valt nu nog niet in goede aarde, maar later wel. Dan zijn we onze tijd vooruit.”

Wat is er volgens jullie nodig voor goede samenwerking? En zie je dat terug bij elkaar?
Dick
: “Eerlijkheid, duidelijkheid, een open houding, doen wat je zegt.”

Joris: “Ja, Dick is inderdaad open en duidelijk. Er is daarnaast ruimte voor creativiteit, dat vind ik ook belangrijk.”

Dick: “Joris doet wat hij belooft. En hij verrast mij niet alleen met zijn diepgaande inhoudelijke kennis, maar kan ook uitleggen dat niet alles wat ik wil als opdrachtgever relevant is.”

Joris: “Dick heeft ook veel kennis en stelt kritische vragen. En hij kan mensen overtuigen. Ik vind Dick wel een echte ambassadeur. Het leukste is als we samen aan anderen enthousiast vertellen wat we doen!”

Tot slot: kunnen jullie samen door 1 deur? Waarom?
Dick
: “Zeker. Omdat we niet bang zijn een beetje in te schikken als die deur, laten we zeggen, wat smal zou zijn.”

Joris: “Dan proberen we die deur breder te maken.”

Dick: “Zodat er nog meer mensen mee kunnen lopen.”

English version:

The ideal collaboration model (not simulation, but reality)
ERTMS affects the entire rail sector, so collaboration is a must. How does that work in practice?

Source: Fokke Eenhoorn

How do you know each other?
Dick
: “As a Model Development program manager, I am involved in the development of simulation models and optimization issues. ProRail has a long history in simulations, but our software was not well equipped for the increasingly complex developments. Years ago, when we were looking for a more flexible system with more options, we ended up with a platform developed by InControl.”

Joris: “I joined later, in 2006 I believe, when I became responsible for simulation models for rail, among other things, as team manager Public Transport.”

Which simulation(s) are you currently working on?
Joris: “Currently we are involved in a major project in which we have recreated the ERTMS user processes in a simulator. The aim is to validate those processes and improve communication between the train driver and train traffic controller. The simulator simulates the train service in a kind of 3D environment in which the railway system is modelled.”

Dick: “It is therefore about testing whether we have thought it through properly, not yet about training the people who will work with it. That will come later.”

Can you describe the purpose of the collaboration?
Dick
: “Our goal is to visualize and experience the future of rail in an efficient way, and to gain insight into that complexity.”

Joris: “Yes, so testing and developing things together. That is also the power of simulation. A good example is that after such a session we received feedback from drivers and train controllers: ‘Well, I will never do that in practice.'”

Dick: “Or vice versa: ‘This scenario is not good; can we still adjust it?’ I thought that was a good lesson. So, it works both ways. This is how we improve practice.”

Joris: “And that makes us very happy!”

Do you also encounter bottlenecks and if so: how do you solve them?
Dick: “Yes, my work is a fun, but challenging puzzle. That requires chemistry in the collaboration and making use of each other’s qualities.”

Joris: “ProRail sometimes asks us challenging questions. For example: develop a mathematical optimization algorithm for Automatic Train Operation. Then it is quite exciting whether we can also deliver that.”

Dick: “It usually leads to good results. Or it may not be well received now, but it will later. Then we are ahead of our time.”

What do you think is necessary for good cooperation? And do you see that back together?
Dick
: “Honesty, clarity, an open attitude, do what you say.”

Joris: “Yes, Dick is indeed open and clear. There is also room for creativity, which is also important to me.”

Dick: “Joris does what he promises. And he not only surprises me with his in-depth substantive knowledge but can also explain that not everything I want as a client is relevant.”

Joris: “Dick also has a lot of knowledge and asks critical questions. And he can convince people. I think Dick is a real ambassador. The best part is when we enthusiastically tell others about what we do!”

Finally: Are you both on good terms with each other? Why?
Dick
: “Certainly, because neither of us is afraid to compromise a little if necessary.”

Joris: “Then we try to create more space for each other.”

Dick: “So that in the end more people can join us and benefit from our efforts.”

Abbreviations:
* ERTMS: European Rail Traffic Management System
* ATO: Automatic Train Operation
* TMS: Traffic Management System

Are you interested in the contribution of our Simulation Software in the Rail Transportation Industry? Contact us, we are happy to tell you more about our expertise and experience.

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