Solving a multi periodic stochastic model of the rail–car fleet sizing by two-stage optimization formulation

Abstract

a b s t r a c tWe propose a formulation and solution procedure for optimizing the fleet size and freight car allocation under uncertainty demands. There are important interactions between decisions on sizing a rail-car fleet and utilizing that fleet. Consequently, the optimum use of empty rail-cars for demands response in the length of the time periods one of advantages the proposed model. The model also provides rail network information such as yard capacity, unmet demands, and number of loaded and empty rail-car at any given time and location. Consequently, the model helping managers or decision makers of any train company for planning and decision making. We propose two-stage solution procedure for solve rail-car fleet sizing problem. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the model and solution methodology.

Evolutionary Fleet Sizing in Static and Uncertain Environments with Shuttle Transportation Tasks-The Case Studies of Container Terminals [Application Notes]

“…Note that there are also some studies which tackle the FSP under uncertainty in other applications (e.g. military [21,22,23,24,25], maritime [26,27,28,29] and rail [30,31]), however, due to the differences between the nature of those problems and that of the FSP in ESTTs, we do not review these studies here. Shadrokh and Kianfar [32] proposed a genetic algorithm (GA) for the resource investment project scheduling problem (RIPSP).…”

A hybrid metaheuristic algorithm for dynamic rail car fleet sizing problem

“…The primary structure of the model is presented by Beaujon and Turnquist [1]. Sayarshad Sayarshad and Tavakoli-Moghaddam [13] made some changes on the primary model and proposed a model that some stations just depart loaded cars and receive empty cars and another stations just depart empty cars and receive loaded cars. In our model, loaded and empty cars can move between all stations and each station can depart and receive both loaded and empty cars.…”

“…In this model, demand and travel time are considered to be deterministic. Sayarshad and Tavakoli-Moghaddam [13] present the above model using a probabilistic approach and propose a two-stage procedure using simulated annealing.…”

A stochastic model predictive control to heterogeneous rail freight car fleet sizing problem

“…The explicit cost function under a general threshold policy is obtained, which is then used to derive optimal threshold values, optimal initial empty distribution and optimal fleet size. Sayarashad and Moghaddam (2010) proposed a formulation and a solution procedure for homogeneous fleet size optimization and freight car allocation in which car demands were assumed to be stochastic. Loxton et al (2012) considered the problem of forming a heterogeneous vehicle fleet to cater for stochastic future requirements.…”