Optimization methodology of project construction scheduling for intermodal terminal planning problems

Abstract

The goal of this paper is to present a methodology to optimize project construction scheduling for intermodal terminal planning problems. To accomplish that goal, an algorithm is developed to optimize dynamically the prioritization for all planned intermodal terminals. Optimized project construction scheduling can mitigate traffic congestion and decrease the total travel time. In addition, it is important to make full use of the intermodal terminals to achieve the maximum benefit with a limited financing plan. Essentially, project construction scheduling for intermodal terminals is intended to determine the optimal sequence of intermodal terminal project construction. This paper presents four concepts: location indicator, volume indicator, node indicator, and general indicator. The general indicator is equal to the weighted sum of the location indicator, volume indicator, and node indicator, and it is the key factor in optimizing project construction scheduling. A case study in Beijing is provided to demonstrate the practicability and feasibility of the proposed method.