Title
Modeling train movements through complex rail networks
Abstract
Trains operating in densely populated metropolitan areas typically encounter complex trackage configurations. To make optimal use of the available rail capacity, some portions of the rail network may consist of single-track lines while other locations may consist of double- or triple-track lines. Because of varying local conditions, different points in the rail network may have different speed limits. We formulate a graphical technique for modeling such complex rail networks; and we use this technique to develop a deadlock-free algorithm for dispatching each train to its destination with nearly minimal travel time while (a) abiding by the speed limits at each point on each train's route, and (b) maintaining adequate headways between trains. We implemented this train-dispatching algorithm in a simulation model of the movements of passenger and freight trains in Los Angeles County, and we validated the simulation as yielding an adequate approximation to the current system performance.
Year
DOI
Venue
2004
10.1145/974734.974737
ACM Trans. Model. Comput. Simul.
Keywords
Field
DocType
different speed limit,dispatching,complex trackage configuration,complex rail network,rail network,freight train,available rail capacity,different point,modeling,train movement,adequate approximation,deadlock-free algorithm,adequate headway,trains,deadlock,system performance,simulation model
Computer science,Simulation,Deadlock,Travel time,Train,Metropolitan area
Journal
Volume
Issue
Citations 
14
1
20
PageRank 
References 
Authors
1.47
5
3
Name
Order
Citations
PageRank
Quan Lu11026.99
Maged Dessouky247939.53
Robert C. Leachman37710.00