Optimising logistics in RailCity Zurich

Students at FHNW University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland analysed the implications of an increase in capacity for the logistics of the "ShopVille" at Zurich central train station.

There are over 150 shops in the "ShopVille" shopping area at the main train station in Zurich. These are all supplied with goods via a central delivery service. With the capacity of the main train station increasing, the number of delivery vehicles for the "ShopVille" area will also increase. Traffic jams already occur at peak times, when all 37 ramps are occupied. Prospective industrial engineers were commissioned by RailCity to analyse the logistics processes and determine the capacity limits of the existing infrastructure.

The analysis performed by the students showed that it is not the number of ramps that is the problem but rather the processes involved and the vehicle utilisation. An Excel simulation of the potential impact of different proposed solutions was given to the client. The students came to the conclusion that RailCity does not need to start any large construction projects right away. The simulation shows that it would be sensible to opt for a solution involving a number of small steps. The existing infrastructure is adequate for the capacity increase if the processes are correspondingly optimised.

Project information

• Client: RailCity
• Implementation: Students Bachelor in Engineering and Management
• Supervision: Professor Dr. Martin Käppner