Analysis Of The Express/Local Scheme Setting Feasibility In Urban Rail Transit

The track layout of urban metros is generally uncomplicated,as well as the train running scheme,which commonly apply an 'oppositely couple mode'.In terms of some busy lines with a huge amount of daily car kilometers,group passenger flows can be obviously observed,which implies the possibility of putting ‘express-local train' mode into use.Within the area of urban rail transport,both domestically and overseas,there have been cases on the application of express-local train modes.In this paper,the foundation of operating express-local train mode is discussed,with referencing some successful practices.Train stop models and express-local train grouping based on passenger flow matching are also analyzed below.This study is believed to be able to bring inspirations on operational cost reduction,enhancement of passenger service quality,so as to optimize the operational performances of the urban rail transport.Detailedly,the paper contains as followed:1)Reviewing the domestic and overseas research situations of express-local train modes,summarizing the functions of express-local train modes within urban rail transport system.2)Introducing the operational practices on express-local train modes around the world,emphasizing the necessity of investigation on passenger-flow and feasibility on certain lines.3)Analyzing the design essentials such as train formation,routing schemes and train stop models,further analyzing the train ratios,stop sequences,dwell times and time savings,then indicating how express-local modes influence on the throughput capacity of metro lines.4)Discussing how express-local train modes influence passenger waiting and overall travel time;discussing the selection criteria by passengers on the express trains;discussing how express trains influence on the passengers in local common-speed trains,furthermore more working out a formula of time savings due to express trains,then clarifying that the value of overall time savings is the determinant on application of express-local train modes.5)Taking Shenzhen Metro Line 6 for case study,working out an express-local scheme based on the track layout and the presumptive passenger flow characteristics.Using the passenger-flow and OD data to calculate the overall time savings,in order to carry on its feasibility analysis.6)Making a conclusion on the general patterns of whether an urban rail system needs an express-local train mode.