With the methodology of system simulation, the study has accomplished some works as follows, for the scheduling of high-speed trains.
1. Estimating detailed running times of trains
Base on Kikuchi’s simulation model of train operation, an object-oriented model has been constructed to estimate the detailed running times of trains operating in different patterns of stop. And these running times are the basic data through out the study.
2. Creating source timetables
Source timetables were created by the integration of transient demands generated in different time periods and stations to match the running times of trains and expected times of arrival for passengers. The demand-tailored simulation model can create source timetables by various criteria of dispatching trains to meet the characteristics of predicted trips.
3. Solving operating conflicts of trains
Applying three approaches: express preemption, safe separation and conditional waiting to construct simulation models for solving the operating conflicts occurred in source timetables. And some comparisons of the results among three models have been conducted to realize the differences and applicable conditions.
4. Revising feasible timetables
For realizing the effects of solution on conflicts, a simulation model has been constructed to evaluate the feasible timetables. Its results were compared with the performances of trains in the source timetables, and some adjusted measures were to revise the starting times in feasible timetables.