Discrete Time Model and Algorithms for Container Yard Crane Scheduling

Abstract

Container terminal (CT) operations are often bottlenecked by slow YC (yard crane) movements. PM (prime mover) queues in front of the YCs are common. Hence, efficient YC scheduling to reduce the PM waiting time is critical in increasing a CT's throughput. We develop an efficient model for YC scheduling by taking into account realistic operational constraints such as inter-crane interference, fixed YC separation distances and simultaneous container storage/retrievals. Among them, only inter-crane interference has ever been considered in the literature. The model requires far fewer integer variables than the literature by using bi-index decision variables. We show how the model can be solved quickly using heuristics and rolling-horizon algorithm, yielding close to optimal solutions in seconds. The solution quality and solution time are both better than the literature even with additional constraints considered. The proposed formulations and algorithms can be extended to other problems with time windows and space constraints.

Scheduling Multiple Yard Cranes with Crane Interference and Safety Distance Requirement

“…The proposed algorithm completely eliminates the requirement of parameters; the only information required is the number of cranes to be deployed and the jobs to be handled. On the other hand, in the mixed integer programming approaches in Li et al (2009) and Li et al (2012), some parameters, such as JNPI and JHR in Li et al (2012), need to be set or adjusted during the run, which subsequently require mathematical programming expertise.…”

“…The multiple yard crane scheduling problem is in fact a multi-objective optimization problem, which was formulated into a single objective problem in Li et al (2009Li et al ( , 2012 by assigning different weights to the retrieval lateness, retrieval earliness and storage lateness. Mathematically, the objectives can be expressed as:…”

“…However, as the focus of this paper is on the heuristic algorithm development, we will not discuss them here. Mathematical representation of these constraints can be found in Li et al (2009Li et al ( , 2012.…”

Container Terminal Operation: Current Trends and Future Challenges

“…For the efficient operation of yard cranes, scheduling problems have been studied (Ng and Mak 2005;Lee et al 2007;Murty 2007;Li et al 2009;Huang et al 2009). Further, new conceptual YCs that have recently been introduced include overhead bridge cranes that are being used in Singapore, two non-crossing rail mounted gantry crane (RMGC) in a block, two crossing RMGC in a block, and two non-crossing RMGCs with one additional crossing RMGC.…”

Integrated Scheduling Optimization of Yard Crane and Yard Truck in Ship-loading Operation

“…Generally, the existing academic works about the allocating and scheduling optimization of those equipment are prolific. However, most of them focus on single subproblem [1][2][3][4][5] , which ignored the integrity of handling system in container terminals. Along with the developing of optimization theory and technologies, the integrated scheduling of handling equipment is receiving increasing attention in academe and industry.…”