Multi-objective optimization model for railway heavy-haul traffic: Addressing carbon emissions reduction and transport efficiency improvement

• Published in: Energy (Oxford) 2024-05, Vol.294, p.130927, Article 130927
• Main Authors: Tian, Ai-Qing, Wang, Xiao-Yang, Xu, Heying, Pan, Jeng-Shyang, Snášel, Václav, Lv, Hong-Xia
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: algorithms; carbon; Carbon emissions; energy; Forward-learning strategy; Multi-objective optimization problem; railroads; Surrogate-assisted model; traffic; Transport efficiency
• ISSN: 0360-5442
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2024.130927

This paper establishes a multi-objective optimization model for railway heavy-haul trains, focusing on reducing carbon emissions and improving transport efficiency. The model integrates optimization of the route and the vehicle load rate, significantly reducing carbon emissions and enhancing transport efficiency. It addresses the challenges and characteristics of heavy-haul trains, introducing multi-objective optimization problems related to transport carbon emissions and efficiency. Using a pigeon-inspired optimization algorithm, the model considers joint constraints between carbon emissions and transport efficiency objectives. To overcome challenges in multi-objective transportation problems, the paper proposes a forward-learning pigeon-inspired optimization algorithm based on a surrogate-assisted model. This approach calculates the quality of the candidate solution using a surrogate model, reducing time costs. The algorithm employs a forward-learning strategy to enhance learning from non-dominant solutions. Experimental validation with benchmark functions confirms the effectiveness of the model and offers optimized solutions. The proposed method reduces carbon emissions while maintaining transport efficiency, contributing innovative ideas for the development of sustainable heavy-duty trains. [Display omitted] •A model is build for carbon emissions reduction and transport efficiency enhancement.•The model combines route and load rate optimization.•The model achieves carbon emission reductions while improving transport efficiency.•A novel meta-heuristic algorithm for solving the railway heavy-haul trains model.•The proposed algorithm introduces fresh insights for railway heavy-haul trains.