Development of train movement simulator for analysis and optimization of railway signalling systems

Abstract

This paper outlines the development of a software simulation package named `Interstation Train Movement Simulation' which is used to evaluate the performance of an automated railway operation. This program was developed within the National University of Singapore over a time span of three years. Simulations were conducted on the `ITMS' package to access and to optimize the performance of rapid transit systems using different signalling schemes under both steady state and disturbed conditions. Object oriented techniques have been applied to perform the simulation studies. The `Interstation Train Movement Simulation' package employs a fuzzy automatic train controller (ATC) and a fuzzy dwell time controller (DTC) which are responsible both for the optimal and efficient operation of mass transit systems as well as to provide for regularity of service under both steady state and disturbed running conditions.