Reducing Train Delays with Machine Learning-Based Predictive Maintenance for Railways

Mohammad Khalilzadeh; Dragan Pamucar; Ali Heidari

doi:10.31181/dmame8220251514

Authors

Mohammad Khalilzadeh Industrial Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, 34396 Sarıyer, Istanbul, Turkey
Dragan Pamucar Széchenyi István University, Győr, Hungary
Ali Heidari School of Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31181/dmame8220251514

Keywords:

Maintenance and Repair; Train Delay; Machine Learning; Multilayer Perceptron Neural Networks; Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System; Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm

Abstract

The railway network constitutes a vital component of public transportation in many countries, serving millions of passengers and transporting significant volumes of freight. Nevertheless, a persistent challenge within this system is the frequent occurrence of train delays, which arise from diverse causes and result in financial losses, passenger dissatisfaction, and diminished trust among users. Consequently, enhancing operational efficiency and minimising delays has become a central objective for transportation planners and policymakers. In addressing this issue, the present study applies machine learning algorithms (MLAs), specifically multilayer perceptron (MLP) neural networks and the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), to predict potential defects in railway vehicles and improve maintenance and repair strategies within the Iranian railway network. The findings reveal that ANFIS achieves superior predictive accuracy. Building on this, a mathematical model in combination with the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm was developed to optimise train allocation across stations and generate schedules aimed at reducing delays. The employed algorithms proved to be highly effective for predictive maintenance and repair of railway vehicles, ultimately contributing to delay reduction within the railway system.

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References

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