A computer-aided multi-train simulator for rail traffic

This paper presents a multi-train simulator based on traction calculations for rail traffic. The simulator is developed by object-oriented methods and modular structure design and it can mainly provide three functions for users: single-train traction calculation, multi-train simulation and timetable assessment. The architecture of the simulator and multi-train movement model is first discussed in this paper. Two successive trains running on an inter-city railway line are then modeled by the simulator. The simulation results in the case study show that the computer-aided simulator can effectively analyze the sensitivity between train delays and headways.