REPORT ON FREIGHT TRAIN OPTIMIZATION AND SIMULATION Essay

REPORT ON FREIGHT TRAIN OPTIMIZATION AND SIMULATION - Essay Example This however, is rare as it presents challenges in terms of cost and implementation to the stakeholders. On the same note, the current train system is operating at its optimal with which come numerous challenges and safety concerns (Ballis et al, 2004). This calls for a more efficient and effecting freight train optimisation and simulation capable of mitigating the emerging concerns, and even proceed further to predict possible future concerns. Factors considered in the rail freight transport were crew scheduling and train scheduling. This is because, unlike passenger train schedules which can be planned and allocated a slot well in advance, Freight trains are dynamic and require a shorter planning period. Freight train systems vary depending on availability of goods and distance required to be covered. This paper provides an overview of freight transport and the possible effects optimization of the rail system will cause. Problem Statement In any environment and or country that have a considerable amount of shipment rail transport is always the centre of focus. Freight train has faced an increased attention due to problems related with road congestion and safety concerns. Furthermore, large container shipments are always a problem at major ports. A good organisation and prioritisation of freight flows and validating an expedition and efficient freight train systems will go a long way in ensuring speedy processing and clearing of these shipment containers. Motivation/Applications Railway transports system is uniquely designed to deliver efficiency and reliability as it allows for massive freight transport at low and affordable rates. This reliance and steady growth on rail transport however, cannot be fully matched by an equal growth pace of the rail system and network. The increased traffic therefore relies on a nearly out-dated system that requires urgent revision. The hampered growth pace is caused by several factors the most obvious being the high costs inv olved in such an investment (Rizzoli, 2002). Additionally, due to the bulk of both the locomotive trains and its related infrastructure, expansion space required is also a concern especially when it comes to residential and ragged terrain surroundings. Railway companies therefore, are left out with limited options the most significant of which is exploitation of the available resources. This can be done through the implementation of better systems that will facilitate better more efficient time management. Furthermore, additional test environments can be developed to study and understand the various challenges involved on the ground during freight train movement to mitigate risks involved. Objectives The objective of this report is to provide an in depth understanding of the freight train optimization and simulation system. Current conditions will be exploited with the objective of coming up with an optimal train scheduling and optimization technique under an array of realistic and probable conditions. These conditions include; infrastructure I place, optimal average speed done by each train, and the inflow of freight goods. In addition, this report seeks to alleviate the efficiency of freight train transportation by highlighting all the impacts it has on the transport system, and further proposing ways to better improve and handle safety measures already in place. These will