Research on the optimization of empty wagon distribution based on Ant Colony System

Ant Colony System (ACS) algorithm is a kind of intelligent optimization algorithm which has been inspired by the behavior of real ant colonies, in particular, by their foraging behavior. Aiming at the problem of the substitution of Empty Distribution Types in rail transport tension, the model of the substitution of Empty Distribution Types which aims at the minimization of consuming car-kilometer is established. The paper applies ACS to solve it. Some detailed numeral examples are given and different adjustment schemes are taken, which prove that ACS is adaptive to different adjustment requirements. Conclusion results got from the statistical consequence of the examples and convergent curve of the optimal solution. Results show that using ACS to solve the problem not only has obvious advantage in using fewer arguments, but also with simple computing and high rate of convergence. ACS is an effective method to solve the problem of the substitution of Empty Distribution Types.