Restoration of traffic after failures using a virtual train coupling

Abstract

The article examines the influence of group automatic train operation technology (virtual coupling) on accelerating the process of restoring traffic after a failure with a break in traffic on a railway section. Possible train-to-train intervals have been determined: calculated and statistical estimates taking into account real traffic conditions on the section and using virtual coupling technology. At the same time, the influence of energy supply shortage was not considered; it is assumed that in the process of mass implementation of group automatic train operation technology, the energy supply system will be strengthened to ensure the capabilities of automation systems. Simulation modeling of the operation of a railway section in the IMETRA system (macromodeling system for transport junctions and grounds) was carried out in order to comprehensively assess the impact of the introduction of group automatic train operation on the performance of the section in normal operation and after restoration of traffic in the case of a long-term (8 hours) failure of technical means. The possibility of strengthening technical inspection points with additional teams has been considered to speed up the restoration of traffic after failure of technical means.