Multiobjective optimization for intermodal container freight terminals: Mathematical modeling of transport and operations

This dissertation offers a mathematical model to optimize for container terminal operations. Multiobjective optimization and discrete mathematics are the approaches to develop an integer program using set theory and partitions. There are two objective functions, the waiting times for vessels and the waiting costs for containers. The goal here is minimize for these objective functions by using an optimum berthing strategy. An optimizer called Solver is used to solve for the multiobjective minimization model with Excel spreadsheet and Visual Basic. Exogenous inputs are used as synthetic data to run various simulations for different scenarios. The results offer the best allocation of vessels to berths by determining which vessel calls to which berth in which order. Post optimization discussion is presented in the final chapter to help address whether expanding a terminal or improving its productivity is the better choice.