Absolute braking and relative distance braking - train operation control modes in moving block systems

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Absolute braking and relative distance braking - train operation control modes in moving block systems

Ning, B.

With development of modem telecommunication, computer and control techniques, train operation control system, particularly for high speed trains, will be transited from Fixed Block Systems (FBS) to Moving Block Systems (MBS). MBS is an intelligent, comprehensive and modem train operation control system and its development reflects the trend of train operation control and management system in the future. There are two train operation control modes in MBS: Absolute Distance Braking Mode(ADBM) and Relative Distance Braking Mode (RDBM). The two different control modes are with the different efficiency and the different risk. At present, the concepts for RDBM has been widely applied in the control systems for road traffic. However, it is the first time that the idea is tried to be implemented in train control systems. The definitions for ADBM and RDBM and their relevant concepts are given and explained firstly in the paper. The mathematics model for 'Car Following Theory (CFT)' is applied to describe the performance of MBS for ADBM and RDBM with different conditions. A 'Train Following Theory' is put forward and it is one of the key mathematical theories to be established for MBS before RDBM is implemented. Under the conditions of train operation safety, the two strategies are compared in terms of train operation efficiency. The factors to affect safety and efficiency of train operation for RDBM in MBS are analyzed.