INFRASTRUCTURE AND SIGNALLING MODELLING
In RailSys, the modelling of railway lines commences with the detailed modelling of infrastructure elements. Creating an accurate infrastructure model is essential for various critical tasks such as runtime calculations, headway assessments, and timetable development.
A multitude of items must be meticulously modelled in RailSys, encompassing, but not limited to, line sections, gradients, curve speed limits, operational speed limits, signals, overlaps, block sections, platforms, stations, routes, and more. This information is typically derived from track diagrams and Signal Arrangement Plans (SAPs), demanding a deep understanding of railway track and signalling components.
Our team members are exceptionally adept and well-versed in interpreting, extracting, and modelling all infrastructure and signalling system elements (ranging from conventional systems to modern ETCS L1, L2 and CBTC systems) within RailSys. In previous projects, we collaborated closely with track and signal engineers to enhance designs, as what we can uncover through modelling often reveals nuances that are challenging to discern on paper or with other tools, without the visibility of operational outcomes.
TIMETABLE DEVELOPMENT
The creation of timetable models represents a pivotal outcome in operational modelling, shedding light on multiple facets of railway operations. This process begins with modelling rolling stock and train formations, followed by scheduling trains on the modelled lines and networks. RailSys calculates the runtime, making precise modelling of both infrastructure and rolling stock imperative for the accuracy and reliability of the timetable model.
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Another crucial component of timetable modelling in RailSys is headway assessment, which involves evaluating block occupation. A profound understanding of signalling systems, overlaps, and train movements is indispensable for ensuring a dependable headway assessment.
Last but certainly not least, we have timetable structure and operational modelling. This requires a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of timetable intricacies, line and network characteristics, interactions with other lines, and the consideration of operational limits and constraints.
With active involvement in the development of timetables for significant major projects, each member of our team brings a well-demonstrated track record of expertise and experience across all aspects of timetable planning.
DYNAMIC SIMULATIONS
Dynamic simulations in RailSys represent an advanced capability that not all modelers can execute with precision. The perturbation model must accurately mirror real network disruptions and performance levels to offer valuable insights through dynamic simulations.
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A dependable and accurate dynamic simulation should offer valuable insights into operational performance, train interactions, incidents, and operational constraints. It must accurately replicate the real-time conditions of the railway network, forming a robust baseline for meaningful comparisons.
At Macari Consulting, we proudly deliver the most precise dynamic simulation models. Numerous regional and metro projects have benefitted from the innovative solutions and insights we provide through this advanced RailSys feature. In many of our project engagements, dynamic simulations have unveiled the true operational nature, aspects that are challenging to discern through static timetable models alone.
The value of dynamic simulation truly shines in projects requiring exploration of multiple options, enabling the project team to select the option with the most favourable operational outcomes.
FLEET AND STABLING PLANNING
In addition to modelling rolling stock features in RailSys, fleet planning represents an advanced skill set aimed at calculating and evaluating fleet requirements. This encompasses tasks such as determining fleet counts, platform turnback, shunt and re-docking operations, and stabling planning, all of which yield critical outcomes.
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While each team member possesses experience in performing these tasks using RailSys timetable models, we also tap into a wealth of expertise and insights gained from a stabling and fleet rostering tool developed by one of our team members, created specifically for V/Line (Regional Victoria Rail Operator).
PERTURBATION MODELS AND PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
The crux of achieving reliable results in dynamic simulations lies in the meticulous preparation of models and the careful adjustment of perturbation model elements. These tasks demand a deep understanding of railway line and network dynamics, familiarity with operational intricacies, and an appreciation of how incidents impact performance.
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A critical aspect of this process involves differentiating primary incidents from their knock-on effects through rigorous assessment of real data, a vital step in shaping perturbation models and conducting performance evaluations.
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Our team has a track record of delivering insightful performance evaluations and disruption planning projects, encompassing regional rail upgrade initiatives and the calibration of the Melbourne network for the Melbourne Metro Tunnel and calibration of the Sector 3 Sydney Network for the MTMS4 program. Additionally, we draw upon the extensive experiences of a former V/Line Performance team member and a highly skilled patronage/demand modeler to enrich our capabilities.
STRATEGIC PLANNING AND NETWORK OPERATIONAL ASSESSMENT
A comprehensive understanding of rail networks, encompassing their distinctive characteristics such as rolling stock, infrastructure elements, timetable structures, network constraints, operational bottlenecks, and interactions with other networks, lines, and corridors, is paramount for the successful development of a network-wide operational model.
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We are a team of highly experienced, motivated, and innovative operational strategic planners. We have made significant contributions to numerous big build projects and have become a trusted advisory firm to various organisations and projects including the Melbourne Metro Tunnel (DTP, VIC), Regional Rail Revival program (DTP, VIC), More Train More Services program (TfNSW), Regional Rail Link (DTP, VIC), SEQ Network study (TMR, QLD), and other numerous project initiatives.
“Engineering is the art of directing the great sources of power in nature for the use and convenience of man.”
THOMAS TELFORD