3084. Optimizing Transshipment Yard Operations in Railway Systems: A Hierarchical Approach to Enhancing Efficiency and Reducing Delays
Invited abstract in session WC-38: Optimization in Online Environments, stream Data Science meets Optimization.
Wednesday, 12:30-14:00Room: Michael Sadler LG19
Authors (first author is the speaker)
| 1. | Grzegorz Pawlak
|
| Institute of Computing Science, Poznan University of Technology | |
| 2. | Jacek Blazewicz
|
| Institute of Computing Science, Poznan University of Technology | |
| 3. | Mateusz Cichenski
|
| Institute of Computing Science, Poznan University of Technology | |
| 4. | Erwin Pesch
|
| Faculty III, University of Siegen | |
| 5. | Gaurav Singh
|
| BHP |
Abstract
Modern railway systems, particularly transshipment yards, are crucial in improving the efficiency of hub-and-spoke logistics, especially for containerized freight. These yards enable fast and reliable container handling through gantry cranes operating above trains. Railway transport offers a more environmentally friendly option by reducing CO2 emissions compared to air transport and is less obstructed by traffic congestion than road transport. However, delays are a significant challenge, with only 53% of trains arriving within 30 minutes of the scheduled time, largely due to inefficient handling processes in the yards. This issue stems from the need to rearrange train cars using shunting hills and track switches. To address these inefficiencies, the problem has been decomposed into five key subproblems: scheduling train service slots, assigning tracks, deciding on outbound container positions, assigning container moves to cranes, and scheduling crane operations. These subproblems, though typically solved independently, must be integrated for optimal efficiency. Solutions like optimization algorithms, real-time data integration, and automation hold potential to reduce delays, enhance crane utilization, and improve overall yard throughput, contributing to a more efficient and sustainable transport system.
Keywords
- Scheduling
- Algorithms
- Logistics
Status: accepted
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