Integrated Train Rescheduling and Rerouting during Multidisturbances under a Quasi-Moving Block System

Abstract

It is known that it is critical for train rescheduling problem to address some uncertain disturbances to keep the normal condition of railway traffic. This paper is keen on a mathematical model to reschedule high-speed trains controlled by the quasi-moving blocking signalling system impacted by multidisturbances (i.e., primary delay, speed limitation, and siding line blockage). To be specific, a mixed-integer linear programming is formulated based on an improved alternative graph theory, by the means of rerouting, reordering, retiming, and train control. In order to adjust the train speed and find the best routes for trains, the set of alternative arcs and alternative arrival/departure paths are considered in the constraints, respectively. Due to this complex NP-hard problem, a two-step algorithm with three scheduling rules based on a commercial optimizer is applied to solve the problem efficiently in a real-word case, and the efficiency, validity, and feasibility of this method are demonstrated by a series of experimental tests. Finally, the graphical timetables rescheduled are analysed in terms of free conflicts of the solution. Consequently, the proposed mathematical model enriches the existing theory about train rescheduling, and it can also assist train dispatchers to figure out disturbances efficiently.

Rescheduling Out-of-Gauge Trains with Speed Restrictions and Temporal Blockades on the Opposite-Direction Track

“…The train running time is determined by train operation levels with different train trajectories. Xu et al [17] proposed a minimum running-time restriction under a quasi-moving block system. The train running in a blockade segment speed adjustment is taken into consideration.…”

A Rescheduling Approach for Freight Railway considering Equity and Efficiency by an Integrated Genetic Algorithm

“…When rescheduling, the primary responsibility of the train dispatcher is to adjust the timetable into a confict-free one for safety as quickly as possible by rescheduling strategies. Te main rescheduling measures mainly contain retiming (changing train arrival and departure times), rerouting (selecting a new route from feasible routes), reordering (changing train arrival or train orders), and canceling trains [5]. Accordingly, reordering makes some trains stop on designated siding tracks to be overtaken and allow others to pass without interruption, resulting in train delays.…”