Application of Genetic Algorithm to the Multiple Tie Tamper Scheduling Problem

Abstract

Irregularity of ballasted track grows due to gradual plastic deformation of ballast bed under repeated train passage. Daily mainte nanceis indispensable to sustain normal track condition. When we repair track irregularity, we use Multiple Tie Tamper (MTT) in general. And we move MTT to a spot which needs maintenance. Therefore the scheduling problem of MTT is key to reducing or eliminating maintenance costs. In this paper, MTT scheduling is analyzed using Genetic Algorithm (GA). GA is known as one of the effective heuristic search algorithms, and is available for solving this kind of problem. Thus, we can obtain an approximate solution of the MTT scheduling problem. Finally, the features of MTT scheduling proposed are analyzed citing several practical examples.