Intermodal Terminal Subsystem Technology Selection Using Integrated Fuzzy MCDM Model

Abstract

Intermodal transportation is the use of multiple modes of transportation, which can lead to greater sustainability by reducing environmental impact and traffic congestion and increasing the efficiency of supply chains. One of the preconditions for efficient intermodal transport is the efficient intermodal terminal (IT). ITs allow for the smooth and efficient handling of cargo, thus reducing the time, cost, and environmental impact of transportation. Adequate selection of subsystem technologies can significantly improve the efficiency and productivity of an IT, ultimately leading to cost savings for businesses and a more efficient and sustainable transportation system. Accordingly, this paper aims to establish a framework for the evaluation and selection of appropriate technologies for IT subsystems. To solve the defined problem, an innovative hybrid multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) model, which combines the fuzzy factor relationship (FFARE) and the fuzzy combinative distance-based assessment (FCODAS) methods, is developed in this paper. The FFARE method is used for obtaining criteria weights, while the FCODAS method is used for evaluation and a final ranking of the alternatives. The established framework and the model are tested on a real-life case study, evaluating and selecting the handling technology for a planned IT. The study defines 12 potential variants of handling equipment based on their techno-operational characteristics and evaluates them using 16 criteria. The results indicate that the best handling technology variant is the one that uses a rail-mounted gantry crane for trans-shipment and a reach stacker for horizontal transport and storage. The results also point to the conclusion that instead of choosing equipment for each process separately, it is important to think about the combination of different handling technologies that can work together to complete a series of handling cycle processes. The main contributions of this paper are the development of a new hybrid model and the establishment of a framework for the selection of appropriate IT subsystem technologies along with a set of unique criteria for their evaluation and selection.

Ranking of Technologies for Intralogistic Bulk Material Handling Processes Using Fuzzy Step-Wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis and Axial-Distance-Based Aggregated Measurement Methods

“…In this paper, a new hybrid MCDM model is proposed, which is a combination of Fuzzy SWARA [32] and ADAM [43] methods. Within the methodology, Fuzzy SWARA is applied to determine the relative weights of the criteria, and the ADAM method is used to rank alternative solutions.…”

“…In recent years, MCDM methods have gained prominence for tackling such problems. Noteworthy applications encompass the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) [22,[26][27][28][29], the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) [28,30], the Additive Ratio Assessment System (ARAS) [21,30], VIšekriterijumska optimizacija i Kompromisno Rešenje (VIKOR) [22], SWARA [31], Evaluation Based On Distance From Average Solution (EDAS) [23], Combinative Distance-based ASsesment (CODAS) [23,32], Multi-Objective Optimization on the basis of Ratio Analysis (MOORA) [23,29], Cooperation Platform for Research and Standards (COPRAS) [30], COmprehensive Distance-Based RAnking (COBRA) [26], among others, and their various combinations.…”

“…Keršulien et al [33] developed the SWARA method, but Krstić et al [32] were the first to carry it out in a fuzzy environment. The method is used to determine the weight of a criteria based on the order of importance of each criterion, from the most important to the least important.…”

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“…In retail, they streamline click-and-collect processes, enhancing customer convenience [52]. Within workplaces, they provide secure storage for employees' belongings [53]. Educational institutions can utilize them for contactless book lending or equipment distribution.…”

Evaluating the Road Environment Through the Lens of Professional Drivers: A Traffic Safety Perspective

“…Professional drivers are among the most experienced drivers. However, their risk is also directly related to the route they get to drive, which is directly related to the delivery to the given location, which largely depends on the organization of distribution logistics centers [11][12][13].…”