Preference at Intersections
Exclusive development for the effect of preference at traffic lights on train operation
LRT meets a lot of intersections and traffic lights on its way through the city, with most of the intersections giving preference to the LRT.
In the world it is known and accepted to perform micro-simulation at intersections, but with an exclusive vision for the impact on the cars.
And what about the impact on LRT? There is no micro-simulation software on the globe that performs this.
At Int.Trans, we identified this gap and developed a unique model for examining the effect of preference at intersections (road-rail intersection) on train traffic.
Using dedicated trains simulation software (RailSys) and a unique development of our company, it is now possible to define the degree of the desired preference level at intersections. For example:
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What is the percentage of trains that will be delayed at each intersection?
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What is the time frame for a train to be delayed as part of the cycle time at the intersection?
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What is the delay caused to a second train coming to the intersectio from the other direction during the cycle time?
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How does a train delay (first or second during the cycle) affect other trains?
The practical model developed makes it possible to run hundreds of simulations, with different delay probabilities.
In this we simulate in an optimal way the operational reality and it is possible to reach many conclusions about the operation such as:
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Average travel time, variance in travel times (due to partial preferences at intersections)
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Feasibility of Train Frequency - Is it possible to run the planned frequency?
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Secondary delay ("rolling") for subsequent trains
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Rolling stock add-on
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Tracks occupancy at end stations
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And more ..
In addition, the exam includes a preference for the first train at the junction and a preference for the second train (from the other direction) at the intersection at the same time of the cycle.
The following is an example from the train simulation software, a train map that shows the planned travel time with full preference at intersections (continuous line) and travel time given partial preference at intersections (dashed line).
The Actual train accumulates extra time at each junction where it passes without full preference.
It is also possible to perform a statistical analysis of all the results using a dedicated tool of the simulation software and present this using various graphs, such as: average delays, number of late trains, average "rolling" delay on the following train and more.
The following is an example of the average latency at each junction:
The conclusions that emerge from this type of analysis have a great impact on the operational plan in all its aspects.
It is important to examine the preference at intersection already in the early stages of the project to examine operational feasibility and implementation of the required frequency.
Below is a video from the simulation software which illustrates the accumulation of delays at each intersection:
You can see that -
Slightly late - the train is marked in yellow
Moderately late - the train is marked in orange
Great delay - the train is marked in red
