Optimizing the number of docks at transhipment terminals using genetic algorithm

This article presents the issue of designating the number of docks at the transhipment terminals using genetic algorithm. Transhipment terminals refer to cross-docking terminals. The main factor that influences on the number of these docks is the stream of cargo flowing into the given terminal. In order to determine this flow of cargo the mathematical model of the distribution of this flow was developed. This model takes into account constraints like those that e.g. processing capacity at the transhipment terminal cannot be exceeded or demand of recipients must be met. The criterion function in this model determines the minimum cost of the flow of cargo between all objects in the transport network. To designate the optimal stream of cargo flowing into the transport network the genetic algorithm was developed. In this article, the stages of construction of this algorithm were presented. The structure processed by the algorithm, the process of crossover and mutation were described. In the article in order to solve the problem of designating the number of docks at the transhipment terminals the genetic algorithm was developed.