Research on Freight Train Operation Control Simulation on Long Steep Downhill Lines

Abstract

Steep ramps are often unavoidable in route design, leading to adverse effects on freight transportation organization. For operators, how to safely and effectively run trains on steep downhill lines is a challenging task. In response to the requirement, firstly, the control principles of electric freight trains, including safety demands, rapid running, use of driving modes, and periodic braking, are analyzed. Then, a fast train operation simulation algorithm (FTOSA) is proposed to realize the control principles. Finally, a real case study is carried out, and FTOSA is compared with existing simulation software in China. The results showed that FTOSA could generate a high-efficiency speed profile on long steep downhill lines under the constraints of train safety control. This work can provide some references for the operation of electric freight trains.