Abstract
The paper considers solving a problem of rational organization of wagon flows in a polygon of selected technological railroad stations using a technique for solving a knapsack problem employing set functions. Based on the results of present work, the authors developed a method for solving a knapsack-type problem that makes it possible to adapt the algorithm of solving a vector optimization problem to the rational system of organizing wagon flows in trains without using differentiation operations and to solve a basic optimization problem employing the Lagrange multipliers. The applicability of the Lagrange method was proved for the problems on a conditional extremum in terms of set functions. Its special feature is the rejection of Boolean variables. We confirmed correctness of the mathematical notation of solution to a knapsack-type problem and proved adequacy of the proposed algorithm, as well as adapted it for adjusting a plan of freight trains formation in order to improve energy efficiency of transportation. By reducing the complexity of the problem, it has become possible to reduce computer processor time needed for calculation, and employ this algorithm when designing an automated work place (AWP) for an engineer responsible for planning the formation of trains. It should be specially noted that a reduction of the time needed to solve a problem makes it possible to timely adjust the plan of freight trains formation, to eliminate a lot of irrational variants when handling wagons at technical stations. The proposed algorithm helps identify variants to direct train flows to the most promising destinations at minimal energy cost for transportation. Limitations of the proposed approach include a closed cycle of routes of the loaded wagons and part of these routes traveled unloaded until the next loading. In some cases, there is a need to change a weight of the train composition, associated with fractures of weight, and, therefore, a change in the balance between wagon flows and train flows.
Highlights
Railroad transport is currently functioning under extremely difficult conditions
Instability of economic processes in the organization of transportation reduces the level of energy efficiency of rail transport operations
In terms of consumption of fuel and energy resources per unit of a delivered article, railroad transport that performs the vast majority of transportation volumes in the state is the most cost-efficient
Summary
Railroad transport is currently functioning under extremely difficult conditions. A decrease in the volumes of freight transportation has led to closing some low-performing stations, and, to a change in the structure and direction of wagon flows from consignors to consignees. The main direction of activities aimed at reducing consumption of energy resources is to improve structures in the infrastructure, power supply systems and rolling stock, as well as methods of control over the motion of trains. In order to organize wagon flows in the railroad network, a plan of freight train formation is calculated, which is based on the modifications of the network configuration, technological equipment of sections and stations, traction means and capacity of electricity supply system. Given various factors that affect calculation of the train formation plan, as well as intentions of carrier companies to optimize the motion of their wagons, it is possible to argue about the relevance of the issue on rationalization of the organization of wagon flows in order to improve energy efficiency of transportation. 5/4 ( 89 ) 2017 the optimal variant for handling wagons at technical stations, as well as to direct wagon flows by the most promising destinations
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