TECHNICAL PAPERS
Nov 1, 1996

Modeling Reliability of Train Arrival Times

Publication: Journal of Transportation Engineering
Volume 122, Issue 6

Abstract

This paper deals with the scheduling of trains so as to minimize train trip times while maximizing reliability of arrival times. The amount of risk of delay (RD) associated with a schedule is used as the reliability component of a constrained schedule optimization model. The paper outlines the model developed to quantify the risk of delays to individual trains, as well as to specific track segments and to the schedule as a whole. The risk model, which deals with single track operations, can be used to estimate the likely impact on reliability of arrival times, changes in train frequencies, and operating practices; track and station infrastructure investment strategies; and train technology upgrading. An application of the model to the optimization of schedules on a track corridor is described. The results obtained using the model are compared with the schedules used by train operations planning staff, in terms of overall delay and timetable reliability. The results highlight the significance of including a measure of timetable reliability, such as risk of delays, in the objective function for scheduling optimization.

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References

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Published In

Go to Journal of Transportation Engineering
Journal of Transportation Engineering
Volume 122Issue 6November 1996
Pages: 414 - 420

History

Published online: Nov 1, 1996
Published in print: Nov 1996

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Authors

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L. Ferreira
Sr. Lect., School of Civ. Engrg., Queensland Univ. of Technology, P.O. Box 2434, QLD 4001, Australia.
A. Higgins
Sr. Res., School of Mathematics, Queensland Univ. of Technology, P.O. Box 2434, Brisbane QLD 4001, Australia.

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