RTCSIM: an Innovative, Extendable Computation Engine for Timetable Validation

In the beginning of 2005, HaCon started an initiative to redesign the computation engine for running times and mapping of train service dynamics as provided within the Timetable Planning System (TPS). The TPS is considered to be the core production system for railway operational planning in Denmark. In the light of increasing demands on timetable validation technology, this activity is aimed at providing a future-safe solution for the integration of such technology into operational planning applications. Meanwhile, the first versions of the newly designed module RTCSIM have been integrated within the actual software version of TPS. The system is used for integrated production planning over different time horizons including STP (Short Term Planning) at Banedanmark, DSB and DSB S-train as well as Trafikstyrelsen, the Danish regulation and certification body. It was implemented within the years 1999–2002 and has evolved steadily until today, facing imminent changes in business processes and system interfaces. TPS features a high resolution level of infrastructure data including tracks and routes as well as detailed security system information laid out in a principle track plan. Train services are mapped into the model using detailed occupation and release information for the infrastructure elements following the UIC 406 leaflet. It includes conflict detection and resolution algorithms being applied to the overall capacity plan maintained by the system, featuring train services, temporary speed restrictions, track blockages or other withdrawals of network capacity. Using the modular architecture of the new computation engine will unleash several innovative potentials. This especially facilitates the future use of extensive functionality for assessment and optimization of railway network capacity within TPS. With that, HaCon now continues with a long tradition of application development such as the well known UX-SIMU software package as supplied until 1999. This paper gives an overview about the underlying concept and mechanisms of the new computation engine RTCSIM as well as an assessment of impacts on future timetable validation techniques.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/isbn/1845641779
• Corporate Authors:

  WIT Press

  Ashurst Lodge
  Ashurst, Southampton  United Kingdom  SO40 7AA
• Authors:
  • Polzin, T
  • GooBmann, R
• Conference:
  • Computers in Railways X. The Tenth International Conference
  • Location: Prague , Czech Republic
  • Date: 2006-7-10 to 2006-7-12
• Publication Date: 2006

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; References;
• Pagination: pp 621-630
• Monograph Title: Computers in Railways X. Computer System Design and Operation in the Railway and Other Transit Systems

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Algorithms; Evaluation and assessment; Infrastructure; Innovation; Planning methods; Public transit; Railroad tracks; Railroads; Software packages; Timetables; Transit operating agencies; Validation
• Candidate Terms: Web search engines
• Uncontrolled Terms: Blockage; Capacity; Computational methods; Rail capacity
• Subject Areas: Operations and Traffic Management; Passenger Transportation; Planning and Forecasting; Public Transportation; Railroads; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01035769
• Record Type: Publication
• ISBN: 1845641779
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Oct 20 2006 1:49PM