Optimizing Train Discharge in Port Terminals: A Flexible Flow-Shop Scheduling Approach

This paper investigates how multiple vehicles collaborate in the train discharge process at a port terminal, considered as a system of systems (SoS). The objective is to optimize the container discharge sequence to minimize total processing time while respecting operational constraints. The problem is formulated as a flexible flow-shop scheduling problem, and the results, applied to a real-world case, show a reduction in total discharge time compared to that required by the sequence chosen by the terminal. This work lays the foundation for future studies optimizing both train discharge and loading processes at port terminals, potentially providing rail yard operators with an optimal sequence for both operations.