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.