Transportation and Information Technologies in Russia

Reducing locomotive maintenance costs with intelligent software

Valeria A. Butusova — 2025-06-30

This article introduces novel computer software designed to optimize maintenance schedules for traction rolling stock (TRS). The software analyzes TRS failure/breakdown data, considering reliability and cost-efficiency parameters, to recommend optimal inter-repair mileage standards. It analyzes locomotive component reliability indicators, investigates failure distribution hypotheses, and offers cost-effective recommendations for adjusting maintenance intervals. This data-driven approach addresses the limitations of traditional, generalized maintenance schedules by dynamically adapting to specific operating conditions and leveraging statistical models like Weibull, exponential, and normal distributions to predict failure-free operation. The software aims to improve fleet management by reducing downtime, minimizing unscheduled repairs, and lowering overall maintenance costs.

Purpose. This article aims to present computer software designed to process traction rolling stock (TRS) failure data and optimize inter-repair mileage standards, considering both reliability and cost-effectiveness parameters. The software analyzes locomotive component reliability indicators, investigates failure distribution hypotheses within locomotive units, and generates recommendations for optimizing inter-repair mileage while minimizing maintenance and repair costs.

Materials and methods. Methods and Software Description: The software developed in this study employs a multi-stage analysis process to optimize the standards for inter-repair mileage of locomotives. The core methodology is based on the statistical analysis of reliability indicators, including failure rates and the time between failures for individual components. Data collection is performed by sorting failures according to their type and nature, allowing for the identification of recurring patterns and failure modes.

Results. This study has demonstrated the effectiveness of a software-based approach for optimizing inter-repair mileage standards for locomotives. By leveraging statistical failure analysis and integrating economic cost models, the software reduces both the frequency of unplanned repairs and overall maintenance costs. The improvements in locomotive reliability and operational efficiency underscore the value of this tool for railway operators. Furthermore, this software, optimizing inter-repair mileage norms with consideration for reliability indicators and calculating economic impact aimed at reducing downtime, offers significant potential for practical application. Its ability to analyze failure data and predict potential issues allows for proactive maintenance scheduling, minimizing disruptions to operations and maximizing resource utilization. This contributes directly to improved cost-efficiency by reducing the need for reactive repairs and associated expenses.

EDN: XAJGIW

The use of computer simulation to improve road safety at the intersection of Volgogradskaya and Korolenko Streets in Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan

Ramil R. Zagidullin — 2025-06-30

A traffic accident is a phenomenon that has already become an integral part of human life, and although it is often taken for granted, accidents have serious consequences for people, resulting in physical injury, emotional stress, financial loss, and death. In addition, accidents can cause traffic jams, which leads to delays, creating inconveniences for movement.

Therefore, the fight against road accidents is an important task around the world. This requires effective measures to prevent and reduce the risk of accidents. First of all, proper planning of the road network contributes to safety, and in order to assess them, it is necessary to substantiate the effectiveness of the proposed measures. One of the methods of substantiating the possibilities of optimizing intersections is computer simulation, which allows not only analyzing, but also predicting the behavior of transport processes.

The purpose of the study is to develop practical tools for improving road safety.

Methodology. Theoretical and practical research methods were used: system analysis, information synthesis, observations, measurements, experiments and comparisons.

Results. The possibilities of practical tools in the formation and development of transport infrastructure are presented. Scenarios for solving the problem of road safety at one of the intersections of the Kazan city road network have been developed.

Practical implications. When optimizing intersections, when assessing the risks of deterioration in case of incorrect design, or when evaluating effectiveness, use computer modeling methods.

EDN: UKYLKH

On the issue of emergency medical service transportation support: relevance and research directions

Igor M. Chelyshkov — 2025-06-30

Background. The article examines current challenges in optimizing emergency medical services (EMS) transportation logistics in the Russian Federation. It analyzes the system's current state, identifying key issues such as uneven call distribution, suboptimal station placement, outdated vehicle fleets, and inefficient dispatch operations. The study proposes research directions and development approaches to enhance EMS efficiency, including differentiated optimization strategies based on service type (emergency vs. urgent care), queuing theory applications, station location optimization, advanced routing and dispatching methods, and artificial intelligence/neural network implementations. The work emphasizes the need for region-specific solution adaptation and suggests concrete topics for further research. This article aims to draw researchers' and practitioners' attention to critical EMS logistics improvement opportunities to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality for the population.

Purpose – development of scientifically grounded approaches to optimize emergency medical services transportation logistics in the Russian Federation, aimed at enhancing service efficiency, reducing response times, and improving the quality of medical care for the population.

Materials and methods. The primary research method is theoretical-statistical analysis of the current system state and identification of key optimization challenges in EMS transportation logistics in the Russian Federation. The study is based on a comprehensive set of sources including regulatory legal acts, official records, statistical and reference materials, and periodical publications.

Results. This paper presents an analysis of the current state of ambulance service transportation support, identifying several key challenges, including uneven call distribution, suboptimal station location, an aging vehicle fleet, inefficient dispatching, and limited funding. The proposed research and development directions, based on a differentiated approach to optimization depending on the type of care provided (emergency and urgent), application of queuing theory, optimized station placement, implementation of advanced routing and dispatching methods, and the utilization of artificial intelligence and neural networks, constitute a comprehensive action plan for improving the efficiency of ambulance service transportation support operations.

EDN: VYOPIY

Development of a database for efficient management of gas stations

Gulnara A. Gareeva — 2025-06-30

Background. Modern gasoline stations face a number of challenges related to data management, inventory accounting, and customer service. Traditional accounting and management methods are often inefficient, resulting in increased time spent on processing information and an increased likelihood of errors. The lack of a centralized system for storing and processing data makes it difficult to analyze sales and manage inventory, which negatively affects the overall efficiency of the station.

Creating a database for a gas station solves these problems by providing automation of accounting, inventory management and customer service processes. The database allows centralized storage of information on sales, customers, fuel and financial transactions, which greatly simplifies data access and processing.

Purpose. The objective is to develop a tool that will provide automation of accounting and management at a filling station, including storage of information on customers, fuel and transactions, as well as support for analytics to make informed management decisions. This will increase the efficiency of the station, improve customer service and reduce the likelihood of accounting errors.

Method and methodology. To develop the gas station database, the Java programming language was used to create the interface and application logic, and PostgreSQL was used to store and manage the data. The approach was based on the use of a relational data model, which ensures the reliability, integrity and scalability of the system.

Results. The database supports storage of customer, fuel, sales and financial transaction information. Data is centrally managed in PostgreSQL, allowing easy operations for creating, editing and deleting records. The system also includes functions to analyze the data to facilitate informed management decisions. The database architecture provides modularity, allowing new functions to be added without significant changes to existing code.

Scope of the results. The developed database can be used in the management of gas stations, for automation of accounting and customer service processes, as well as in analytics to improve the efficiency of business processes.

Conclusions. The created database significantly simplifies data management at the gasoline station, reduces the probability of errors and increases the overall efficiency of work. Automation of accounting and customer service processes saves time and resources.

EDN: XVPFOM

Development of a control system for multiple unmanned aerial vehicles

Andrey P. Preobrazhenskiy — 2025-06-30

Background. The study considers the problem associated with the development of a control system for many unmanned aerial vehicles. An analysis of the possibilities of improving the efficiency of control of unmanned aerial vehicle systems is carried out. The role of classification methods in the rating assessment of the system of flying objects is shown. The structure of interaction between the control center and a set of unmanned aerial vehicles is presented. A description of approaches related to the assignment of a rating is given. The control center maintains monitoring of the efficiency of the functioning of aircraft. It is shown how the various stages of rating management of a set of unmanned aerial vehicles are interconnected. The general integral assessment has an impact on the partial integral assessment. If the rating of the aircraft coincides with the maximum integral score, it will be considered as having the highest rating.

Purpose. Development of a system on the basis of which many unmanned aerial vehicles are controlled.

Materials and methods. The main research methods are related to the use of set theory, rating approaches and expert methods.

Results. In this paper, the basic principles and features of the formation of a control system for a set of unmanned aerial vehicles are considered in detail. Depending on the initial conditions, you must specify the parameters that should be taken into account in the model. The results of the work can be used for a wide range of unmanned aerial vehicles.

EDN: ZAYLET

Application of a cross-functional approach to optimize the activities of a specialized vehicle depot

Elena A. Kaliberda — 2025-06-30

Background. The article considers the possibility of using cross-functional approach to analyze and optimize motor transport enterprise’s business processes. Cross-functional and end-to-end processes are basic approaches to process-based enterprise management. The article analyzes the peculiarities of application of each of the approaches, and also provides the justification of the necessity to create a cross-functional team to optimize the processes under consideration.

A cross-functional team includes employees of different departments involved in a cross-functional process. The efficiency of task fulfillment by such a team is achieved through direct communication between all team members. The paper presents the main stages of creating a cross-functional team and the conditions for its successful functioning.

The aim is to increase the efficiency of process management of the company's motor transport enterprises through the introduction of cross-functional approach and organization of cross-functional team.

Materials and methods. For the analysis of the processes of the motor transport enterprise the authors of the article apply the visualization method of business processes by using diagrams in notations VAD (Value-Added Chain), EPC (Event-Driven Process Chain). Visualization allows to understand better how operations occur within the enterprise, to identify bottlenecks, unnecessary delays and other problems that can slow down or weaken the effectiveness of communication. A cross-functional approach is proposed to address the identified problems.

Results. This article considers the peculiarities of a specialized depot in the organization of the process of driver's exit to the route, identifies the problems of the process and proposes an optimization solution to reduce the time of driver's exit to the route. It reduces the number of complaints from the depot customers.

EDN: VERIWF

Use of unmanned aerial vehicles in agriculture: modern technologies and prospects

Aleksandr V. Krukhmalev — 2025-06-30

Background. The study provides a rationale for the use of modern technologies that are being actively introduced into agriculture, especially in the context of global challenges such as climate change and tightening regulations. Agricultural drones are becoming one of the key tools, allowing farmers to obtain accurate data on the condition of their fields in real time. Thus, their use can be an important step towards sustainable and efficient agriculture.

Purpose – increasing the efficiency of agricultural enterprise management by using unmanned aerial vehicles for the tasks of agro-industrial complexes, significantly reducing the costs of agricultural production.

Materials and methods. The main research method is to determine the multitasking of UAVs - analysis of the necessary technologies used in agro-industrial complexes. The article is based on a set of sources presented by regulatory legal acts, office work, statistical and reference materials, periodicals.

Results. The analysis showed that UAVs are often used as aerial monitoring, which can perform the function of both aerial photography and the delivery of plant protection products and perform many necessary functions. Unmanned aerial vehicles are also conveniently used to create models of various agricultural objects (buildings, technological structures, melioration facilities and hydraulic structures).

EDN: SJXJCE

Morphometric criteria for evaluating individual territorial units in solving the problem of spatial development of linear objects of terrestrial transport infrastructure

Dmitry V. Kuzmin — 2025-06-30

Background. The article discusses the issue of evaluating the morphometric properties of a polygon in order to form a rating matrix necessary to solve the problem of finding a path in a discrete space. This approach to solving the problem of spatial development of linear objects of land transport will be useful in solving practical problems of camera tracing.

Materials and methods. The landfill in question is separated into separate territorial units, each of which has its own rating based on a set of different criteria (anthropogenic load, morphometry, etc.). The rating of a particular territorial unit determines the prospects of its consideration when solving the tracing problem. Such a discrete polygon model is actually a weighted graph, in which the search for a path is carried out by various search algorithms: A*, Dijkstra, Breadth-first search. Since the assessment of a particular territorial unit based on the morphometric properties of an area depends on its size, it is proposed to evaluate the polygon in two stages with different resolutions of discrete space, i.e. enlarging individual territorial units into blocks. As an example, in the work, the initial high-resolution height matrix was programmatically generated, which was later combined into blocks. With respect to the matrix of formed blocks, sensitivity analysis was performed according to 4 criteria: the average slope of the block, the standard deviation of heights, the height range and the roughness index.

Results. It follows from the experimental results that the "Height range" criterion has the highest average sensitivity and, as a result, weight. This means that this criterion has a greater impact on the formation of block ratings. At the same time, the graph of rating changes according to this criterion and the color matrix of the weight range allow us to conclude that this criterion is the least informative, since it weakly distinguishes the blocks from each other.

EDN: KZWCRR

Influence of dynamic properties of the process module on vertical vibrations of the wheel axis

Yuri P. Kornyushin — 2025-06-30

Background. The article examines the influence of the dynamic properties of the technological module on the process of forming vertical vibrations of the wheel axis when moving along a given bearing surface. The following methods were used in the study: a mathematical model of half of the technological module, a bus model. The amplitude-frequency characteristics of the system and spectral densities for vertical displacement and acceleration of the wheel axis for four configurations are obtained when changing the parameter characterizing the dynamic properties of technological modules. Statistical dynamics methods were used to analyze the dependencies. With an increase in the mass of the technological module from 1429 kg to 3929 kg (to transfer the tractor from traction class 1.4 to traction class 2 and 3, respectively), when using 15.5R38 tires, there is a decrease in the natural frequency of the technological module from 24 to 14 rad/s and an increase in the maximum spectral density from 0.5*10-3 to 4*10-3. With an increase in the mass of the technological module from 2343 kg to 4847 kg (to transfer the tractor from traction class 3 to traction class 4 and 5, respectively), when using tires 21.3R24, there is a decrease in the natural oscillation frequency of the technological module from 18 to 12 rad/s and an increase in the maximum spectral density from 1.5 * 10-3 to 6*10-3. The spectral density (characterizing the distribution of process energy) of vertical vibrations of the support surface in the frequency range (0...5 rad/s) coincides with the spectral density of the wheel axis of technological modules of all configurations.

Purpose. Obtaining and analyzing statistical characteristics describing the dynamic properties of technological modules when moving along a given support surface.

Methodology. In the article were used the methods of mathematical modeling and also statistical methods of the analysis.

Results. Statistical characteristics describing the dynamic properties of technological modules when moving along a given support surface are obtained.

Practical implications. It is advisable to apply the results obtained to organizations and institutions involved in the development of methods and tools for studying the dynamics of tractors and automobiles.

EDN: GJGBJR

Motorization and its impact on the development of Russian cities

Yuliya А. Koleber — 2025-06-30

Background. Currently, issues of motorization have become widespread in large cities of Russia. This is due to its rapid development and significant impact on the functioning of urban transport systems. The process of motorization is one of the factors determining the development of urban public passenger transport, the state of the environment and the economy of the city. However, the rapid development of motorization generates a number of problems of the urban environment, which directly affect the decline in the quality of life of the population and the attractiveness of the city. As a result, a study on the development of motorization in Russian cities seems relevant.

The aim is to determine the degree of influence of motorization on the development of Russian cities and to explore the experience of developing mechanisms for its regulation.

Methodology. The study uses the method of analysis, the method of systematization of data.

Results. The specifics are considered and the author's definition of the concept of "motorization" is given. The prerequisites, stages, positive and negative sides, determining factors, as well as the current state of development of motorization in Russia are studied and described in detail. The article examines the experience of developing mechanisms necessary to curb the process of motorization in order to ensure safety, preserve the health and social well-being of the population, reduce the burden on the road network and reduce the harmful effects of transport on the environment.

The scope of application of the results obtained. The results obtained can be used by scientists, as well as experts in the field of transport, to form management decisions in the process of urban passenger transportation.

Conclusions. Motorization is one of the factors determining the functioning of a modern city. However, the uncontrolled process of motorization has a negative impact on the urban environment. It is important for local governments to choose levers to regulate motorization, depending on the specifics of the city.

EDN: ROXGOS

Traffic congestion forecasting using machine learning methods

Ramil R. Zagidullin — 2025-06-30

Background. This study develops a comprehensive approach to traffic congestion forecasting using synthetic data that simulates the dynamics of urban traffic. A hybrid methodology is proposed that combines time series analysis and deep learning, which is highly relevant for modeling nonlinear dependencies and patterns in traffic data.

Purpose. The purpose of this study is to develop and test a predictive model capable of accurately forecasting traffic congestion levels while accounting for seasonal and weather-related factors.

Materials and methods. To identify patterns in the data, additive time series decomposition, spectral analysis based on the fast Fourier transform, and autocorrelation analysis were applied. The predictive model was implemented using a two-stage approach: the classical ARIMA algorithm was used for baseline forecasting, while an LSTM architecture with two recurrent layers and regularization was trained on 24-hour sequences. Additionally, to compare and validate the results, the ensemble method Random Forest was used, configured with the following hyperparameters: 200 trees, maximum depth of 12, minimum samples per leaf of 2.

Results. The results demonstrate the superiority of the LSTM model over ARIMA and Random Forest in terms of predictive accuracy, as confirmed by visual comparison of forecasts with test data and by the mean squared error metric. Key factors influencing congestion were identified, including daily traffic intensity cycles, increased load during precipitation events (up to 30% during snow and 20% during rain), as well as temperature-dependent modulation of traffic flow.

EDN: HHJBXM

Problems of the introduction of passenger electric vehicles in the Krasnodar territory

Alexander A. Izyumsky — 2025-06-30

Background. In this article, the authors consider the transition of passenger electric vehicles from internal combustion engines to cars that use electric motors partially or completely for movement, and also consider the problems that arise along this path using the example of the Krasnodar Territory as one of the regions most suitable for this transition.

The article provides an analysis of the pace of development of the infrastructure necessary for the development of passenger electric transport in Russia and the Krasnodar Territory, assesses the current situation in the field of "electrification" of light vehicles, highlights the main problems that arise in this area, and outlines ways to solve them.

The authors propose to carry out this transition not simultaneously and everywhere, timing it to certain dates, in accordance with certain fashion trends in the field of motor transport, but consistently and steadily, but taking into account the experience of other countries and their own specifics, in relation to each region of Russia.

The authors provide recommendations for priority measures aimed at developing a passenger electric fleet and smoothing out problems with its implementation in relation to the Krasnodar Territory.

Purpose. Identification of the main problems related to the introduction of passenger electric vehicles in the Krasnodar Territory.

Materials and methods. The article used statistical analysis.

Results. The analysis of the passenger electric fleet and the infrastructure necessary for its operation in the Krasnodar Territory was carried out, the problems arising on the way of introduction of passenger electric vehicles were studied and recommendations for an early and painless transition to electric vehicles were proposed.

Scope of application of the results: scientific and research activities aimed at the early introduction of environmentally friendly vehicles.

EDN: CRZFNC

Implementation model of the production process control system at a car service enterprise

Evgeniy S. Kozin — 2025-06-30

The study considers a methodical approach to control of production processes for maintenance and repair of cars at technical service enterprises. The approach is based on considering the enterprise as a complex organizational or cybernetic system. For the main process implemented by this system, the number of control points during the shift, the size and degree of delay of control actions are determined. To simulate the system operation, a simulation model is used that takes into account the gradual increase in the error of performers and its elimination when applying the control action. Taking into account the established indicator and the efficiency criterion, the optimal number of control system elements is determined depending on the intensity of car arrival in the service zone. Models of the established patterns are obtained, which are described by single-factor regression equations. Models of patterns of influence of control system parameters on the relative throughput of the system are developed.

Purpose – to improve the efficiency of management of automobile transport enterprises by establishing patterns of influence of the number of vehicles arriving in the technical service area on the parameters of the enterprise's production process control system.

Methodology. The study uses the method of correlation-regression analysis, the methodology of experiment planning, simulation modeling, and system analysis.

Results. Patterns of influence of the number of vehicles arriving in the technical service area on the number of control points during a shift, on the magnitude of the control action, and on the degree of delay in the implementation of the control action were established. Patterns of influence of the number of control points during a shift, the magnitude of the control action, and the degree of delay in the implementation of the control action on the relative throughput of the system were established.

Practical implications. The results of the study can be used by the management of enterprises for technical maintenance and repair of vehicles in the operational management of technological processes.

EDN: QSOJPJ

Assessment of the reliability of operated sections of highways

Yuri V. Burtyl — 2025-06-30

Background. The main objective of this study is to develop a methodology for checking the actual reliability of road surfaces based on the dynamics of changes in pavement smoothness, estimated vehicle speed, and estimated service life. The study introduces proprietary quantitative criteria, such as the road structure operational reliability coefficient and the road surface service life coefficient. The study is related to observing changes in road surface smoothness and its impact on performance characteristics. Assessing the wear and tear that occurs during operation is especially important for determining repair periods and the required amount of work. The article provides examples of smoothness measurements on road sections with varying traffic intensities, which allows us to draw a conclusion about the different rates of pavement condition deterioration and identify areas that are most susceptible to deformation.

Purpose. Consists in developing and testing a methodology for assessing the condition of road surfaces, with an emphasis on analyzing the evenness and performance characteristics of road structures. The main task is to integrate quantitative indicators and mathematical models that will allow more accurate determination of the timing and volume of necessary repairs.

Materials and methods. The article presents a methodology for assessing the actual reliability of road surfaces, developed on the basis of the dynamics of changes in the smoothness of the pavement, the estimated speed of the vehicle and the estimated service life. The methodology includes the author's developed quantitative assessment criteria, which include the coefficient of operational reliability of the road structure, the operational service life of the pavement and the coefficient of the service life of the road pavement.

Results. Based on the results of the stupavementdy, reliability assessment criteria have been developed that can be useful for road management bodies and for repair planning. These criteria allow not only to identify areas requiring repair, but also to optimize the resources spent on its implementation. The study proves that the use of mathematical models and quantitative indicators can significantly improve the road surface management system, increasing safety and comfort for users.

EDN: FHQOHH