A simulation-based optimal design and analysis method for designing a train overhaul maintenance facility

Abstract

This paper presents a simulation-based optimal design and analysis method for designing a train overhaul maintenance facility. Because the train is composed of one or more cars, the authors design the simulation model after analysing the operation of the train according to the train's following parts: train, car, car body, and wheel. The authors consider the critical (dependent) factors and design (independent) parameters for the simulation analysis. Therefore, multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) is proposed for selecting alternatives, and simulation optimization is used for finding the optimal design parameters of the selected alternative. A case study for the above approach is applied to the electric locomotive overhaul maintenance facility. This paper provides a comprehensive framework for a train overhaul maintenance facility design using MCDM and the simulation optimization.

Multi-Criteria Decision Making in Civil Engineering. Part Ii – Applications

“…Papers from Transportation Research Area are grouped by research domains as presented in Figure 4. The methods are applied for rational logistics decisions, for air and rail transpor- Li et al (2013) Designing a train overhaul maintenance facility Simulation optimization, MCDM Um et al (2011) Evaluating alternative rail transit plans AHP Gercek et al (2004) Transportation construction projects…”

Autonomous Maintenance for Through-Life Engineering

“…In the railway industry for example train overhaul maintenance facilities (TOMFs) are utilized to keep capital assets in good order. The operation of such a TOMF or depot is based upon either time-based maintenance in which a train's performance is checked periodically or condition-based maintenance when a train malfunctions, either mechanically or functionally [7]. Often time-based maintenance is treated as a repair system with the performance of the train inspected periodically and a number of known maintenance tasks undertaken to maintain both safety and reliability of the train [7].…”

“…The operation of such a TOMF or depot is based upon either time-based maintenance in which a train's performance is checked periodically or condition-based maintenance when a train malfunctions, either mechanically or functionally [7]. Often time-based maintenance is treated as a repair system with the performance of the train inspected periodically and a number of known maintenance tasks undertaken to maintain both safety and reliability of the train [7]. These approaches can vary between countries as can be seen throughout Japan, Germany and France and their high speed railway systems, with different granularity or degrees of maintenance split among a number of levels.…”

“…This can include methods for aiding the design of maintenance depots so as to aid overall system performance as shown in a case study on a TOMF [7], or more applicably the product itself. The reliability of a mechanical system depends on its design, the quality of its components, and its maintenance.…”