Closer running - railway capacity analysis and timetable improvement

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Duan, Huayu (2018). Closer running - railway capacity analysis and timetable improvement. University of Birmingham. M.Res.

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Abstract

Sufficient railway capacity can deliver enhanced reliability, customer experience and better revenue outcomes. Through qualitative and quantitative analysis, the result shows that it is not appropriate to try to improve capacity by changing train speed and braking rate as they are both limited by physics. Also, train length has a minor negative impact on the line capacity, even though passenger capacity can be increased significantly by coupling more carriages. So, optimising operational strategy is the reasonable and achievable approach to capacity improvement. While running at different speeds is an organisational problem without any upside, the research on an effective stopping pattern strategy is underdeveloped with potential benefits. Therefore, a stopping pattern algorithm and a novel timetabling method are proposed in this thesis. These tools provide an approach to timetable improvement and future dynamic (re-)scheduling to handle unexpected delays and failures rapidly in a heavily trafficked area. Meanwhile, combining relative braking distance approach and moving block system, an advanced signalling system concept is introduced, namely, the Optimised Headway Distance Moving Block. The simulation shows that reducing the technical headway in line with the principles of it could increase capacity by nearly 60% compared to the traditional moving block system.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Res.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Res.

Supervisor(s):