Simulation and Evaluation Model of Operation Delay Adjustment Plan for Urban Rail Transit Express and Local Trains

Objective Making a reasonable train delay adjustment plan is one of the key tasks to ensure the safe and reliable operation of urban rail transit lines. For those lines with express and local trains running on, it is necessary to study the passengers′ train selection behavior during train delays, and analyze the influence of express and local trains overtaking on their choices as well. Method An analysis is conducted on passenger retention and their train selection behavior during express and local train operation on the line. A simulation algorithm that conforms to the rules of passenger boarding/alighting and their train selection behavior is designed, and a simulation and evaluation model for the operation plan adjustment due to express and local train delay is established. In consideration of the departure time and sequence of the express and local trains, and the overtaking trains and stations, different train delay adjustment plans are developed. The passenger′s travel process under the original operation plan and four delay adjustment plans on Shanghai Metro Line 16 is simulated, and the four delay adjustment plans are comprehensively evaluated. Result & Conclusion The simulation and evaluation model is effective and reliable, which can provide simulation means for urban rail transit operators to evaluate train operation plans, and also provide the basis for improving passenger service level, train capacity utilization rate and train operation plans.