NeTrainSim: a network-level simulator for modeling freight train longitudinal motion and energy consumption

Although train modeling research is vast, most available simulation tools are confined to city- or trip-scale analysis, primarily offering micro-level simulations of network segments. This paper addresses this void by developing the NeTrainSim simulator for heavy long-haul freight trains on a network of multiple intersecting tracks. The main objective of this simulator is to enable a comprehensive analysis of energy consumption and the associated carbon footprint for the entire train system. Four case studies were conducted to demonstrate the simulator’s performance. The first case study validates the model by comparing NeTrainSim output to empirical trajectory data. The results demonstrate that the simulated trajectory is precise enough to estimate the train energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. The second application demonstrates the train-following model considering six trains following each other. The results showcase the model ability to maintain safe-following distances between successive trains. The next study highlights the simulator’s ability to resolve train conflicts for different scenarios. Finally, the suitability of the NeTrainSim for modeling realistic railroad networks is verified through the modeling of the entire US network and comparing alternative powertrains on the fleet energy consumption.

• Record URL:
  • https://doi.org/10.1007/s40534-024-00331-x
• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/26624745
• Supplemental Notes:
  • © The Author(s) 2024.
• Authors:
  • Aredah, Ahmed S
  • Fadhloun, Karim
  • Rakha, Hesham A
  • 0000-0002-5845-2929
• Publication Date: 2024-12

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Digital/other
• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: pp 480-498
• Serial:
  • Railway Engineering Science
  • Volume: 32
  • Issue Number: 4
  • Publisher: Springer Nature
  • ISSN: 2662-4745
  • Serial URL: https://www.springer.com/journal/40534

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Energy consumption; Freight trains; Long haul; Vehicle dynamics
• Subject Areas: Energy; Freight Transportation; Railroads; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01938433
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Nov 27 2024 1:45PM