Simulator for studying traffic dynamics of automated guideway transit system

This paper describes the development of a computer-based simulator which is used to design automated guideway transit systems in urban area. The principal objectives of the simulator are as follows: 1) design of signaling system 2) design of automatic train operation system 3) design of supervisory control system 4) evaluation of train schedule (timetable). The work was specifically undertaken to evaluate the traffic dynamics under disordered operation not only from manager´s side but from passenger´s side. In order to achieve the above objectives effectively, the simulator has the following three simulation modes: 1) safety check mode, 2) single train operation mode, 3) system operation mode. In safety check mode, a train is intentionally braked at the start point of each block from the limited speed used in a signaling system. In single train operation mode, the automatic operation of a single train along a specified route is simulated. In system operation mode, multiple trains operated under a supervisory control system are faithfully simulated together with the passenger flows at each station.