Authors: Donald R. Uzarski, Charles S. Melching, Judith S. Liebman

Date of Publication:  1999 (?)

Sponsoring Agency:  Transportation Research Board, Committee on Railway Maintenance

Performing Organization:  U.S. Army Construction Engineering Research Laboratory

Report No:

Abstract:

The U.S. Army Construction Engineering Research Laboratory and the University of Illinois have developed a micro-computer-based procedure called FORPROP for priority ranking railroad track segments that need major maintenance and repair (M&R). Intended for use by central (Major Command) planners who need to allocate funds to several subordinate installations, this procedure serves as a decision support tool for ranking track segments in a nearly optimal fashion. The model for accomplishing this uses a benefit-cost ratio heuristic. Benefit is defined as an increase in the value of each track segment, should the work be accomplished. Value is measured analytically by a “value factor” derived from utility concepts based on the preferences of Army transportation planners. It represents the relative value of a segment in the overall accomplishment of the railroad mobilization outloading mission. Cost is the total cost of the repair work on a segment. Ratios are computed for individual track segments as well as logical segment groups based on train movements. The groups are ranked by decreasing ratios. Through the use of elaborate bookkeeping and a binary (0-1) knapsack procedure, a group is selected as a function of ratio, precedence (certain segment groups repaired either before or in conjunction with the group being considered), and available budget.
 

No. of Pages:  8