Evaluating train interval control performance on single-track lines of the railway network

Introduction. The significant development of automation and telemechanics systems, which caused a variety of operating modes of single-track lines, requires a more detailed study of the potential of interval control systems for more efficient transport. The object of the study is the transport process on a single-track line. The subject of the study is the potential of train interval control systems to increase throughput and carrying capacity instead of building second main tracks. The study intends to determine an effective performance range of interval control on single-track lines.

Materials and methods. The study involved a multi-approach simulation, including a process approach to simulate the work of on-duty personnel, agent-based simulation for train mode selection and system dynamics for traction calculations. Different operating options for a single-track line under destabilising factors were assessed using the game with Nature strategy. The paper proposes a new approach to assessing interval control through the creation of an equal economic solution sphere of interval control use and construction of second main tracks.

Results. Simulation model runs created matrices of indicators and configurations, and different operational strategies on a single-track line were assessed using game theory criteria. The Anaconda Coordinate Interval Control System has proved to be the most effective way to reduce the need for second main track construction. The paper presents an equal economic solution sphere of feasible use of interval control and construction of second main tracks.

Discussion and conclusion. The proposed method of selecting the most feasible interval control system on a singletrack line based on the creation of an equal economic solution sphere in combination with the game with Nature could be used to rationalise the allocation of railway transport investment. The conclusions from its application do not contradict the theory of traffic flows and reduce uncertainty in the development of single-track line infrastructure.

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