Physical Models and Control of the Train Dynamics in a Metro Line Without Junction

Abstract

We propose a traffic flow and control model for the train dynamics in a linear metro line without junction. The model takes into account time constraints such as minimum interstation running times, minimum train dwell times at platforms, and minimum safe separation times between successive trains. Moreover, it includes a control law that sets the train dwell times at platforms based on the feedback of the train time-headways and of the passenger arrival rates at platforms. We show that the dynamic system converges to a stable stationary regime with a unique average growth rate, and derive, by numerical simulation, the traffic phases of the train dynamics. We compare the obtained traffic phases with the ones derived with an existing max-plus algebra traffic model, and derive the effect of the passenger travel demand on the train dynamics. Finally, we draw some conclusions and discuss perspectives of the proposed approach.