Capacity evaluation of ERTMS/ETCS HTD and moving block

Abstract

This paper compares the capacity effect of different implementations of ERTMS/ETCS (European Rail Traffic Management System/The European Train Control System): Hybrid Train Detection (HTD) and moving block. This is done both on a conceptual level by looking at a scenario involving two trains, and for a simulated network. The effects are studied by modelling HTD and moving block in the simulation tool RailSys, looking at the performance indicators related to capacity: headway, capacity utilisation, and punctuality. The model uses existing infrastructure and a complete timetable. The results of the scenario with two trains show that similar results on headway can be achieved with HTD compared to moving block This is true even with relatively long virtual blocks of 500 m. The results from the simulated network show that various shares of trains with train integrity, as well as moving block, have a minor effect on the performance indicator punctuality. Moving block gives some improvements on capacity utilisation compared to HTD. However, by implementing shorter virtual blocks at sections of lower speed, it is possible to achieve results on capacity utilisation like that engendered by moving block.