Solution of the Problem of Empty Car Distribution between Stations and Planning of Way-Freight Train Route Using Genetic Algorithms

Viktor Prokhorov,Yuliia Riabushka,Tetiana Kalashnikova,Liliia Rybalchenko,Denys Chekhunov

doi:10.14419/ijet.v7i4.3.19803

Abstract

In this paper we consider the problem of distributing empty freight cars in a railway polygon. We show how the process can be improved using an optimization model. The optimization model can be characterized as a combination of minimum-cost flow problem with vehicle routing problem. In general, problem of empty railroad car distribution between stations and definition of way-freight train route is presented as integer combinatorial optimization problem. Computational tests show that the model can be solved in acceptable time for real size problems, and indicate that the model generates distribution plans that can improve the quality of the planning process.

Highlights

Railway transport is one of the main sectors of the national economy, playing a crucial role in the implementation of foreign and domestic economic relations
In order to gain competitive advantage, railway transport needs to improve the quality of customer service by means of providing an expanded range of services
The most promising way to implement such approaches is to provide organization of the transportation process based on improvement of the operational planning technology in the rolling stock distribution at the polygons of Ukrainian railway

Summary

Introduction

Railway transport is one of the main sectors of the national economy, playing a crucial role in the implementation of foreign and domestic economic relations. The standard of living, the integrity and interchange between the regions of the country, resources, productivity and competitiveness depends on the efficiency and stability of its functioning. It shall ensure traffic regularity, high speed of transportation, high throughput and shipping capacity. One of the key issues for the transportation system is prompt provision of cars of the required type of all shippers in accordance with the bids. The most promising way to implement such approaches is to provide organization of the transportation process based on improvement of the operational planning technology in the rolling stock distribution at the polygons of Ukrainian railway

Literature Review

Problem Statement

Computational Results

Conclusions