RTSE, a multi-component closed-loop control framework for railway networks

Optimal operation of rail transport systems has become an increasingly challenging task over the last decades. To allow for a better understanding of the system dynamics in different operational states (including disruptions) and in order to evaluate and to improve control strategies, a multi-component simulation framework, representing a closed-loop operation environment for railway networks, is being developed. This framework is based on a time controlled and partially automated operational concept. Time control requires all operational processes to be continuously monitored with respect to the production schedule. Deviations exceeding some pre-determined tolerance thresholds will result in a re-adjustment of the production plan in real-time. A dedicated (re-)scheduling algorithm is implemented to achieve this goal. Involved parties (agents) are explicitly taken into account. For instance, train drivers might be technically enabled to follow new operational targets like re-adjusted train speeds while approaching conflict points. The framework, called Rail Transport Service Environment (RTSE), consists of three main modules: (i) a traffic simulation environment, (ii) a system state monitoring module, and (iii) the scheduling module. The modules are interconnected through standard communication interfaces so that each module can be exchanged easily depending on the user environment. Railway traffic simulations are carried out using the dedicated railway simulation tool OpenTrack. The simulated traffic situations are interpreted by an automated monitoring module including a threshold detection mechanism, which compares actual and planned process states and induces rescheduling actions executed by the (re-)scheduling algorithm, if required. Rescheduling actions take eventually reduced availability of resources into account