QCs scheduling scheme of genetic algorithm (GA) and improved firefly algorithm (FA)

As an important part of container logistics, quay cranes (QCs) are crucial equipment in multimodal container transportation. The scheduling and allocation of QCs determine the operational efficiency of container terminals. By analyzing the way quay cranes are operated, this paper establishes a mixed-integer dynamic rolling-horizon programming model for the scheduling and allocation of QCs and proposes use of a genetic algorithm and two improved firefly algorithms based on segment encoding technology to formulate an optimum QC scheduling scheme. In doing so, the improved approach has made QC control more efficient and balanced.