Use of Computer Simulation for the Analysis of Railroad Operations in the St. Louis Terminal Area

Merriam, E. William

i

Use of Computer Simulation for the Analysis of Railroad Operations in the St. Louis Terminal Area

1977-11-01
By Merriam, E. William

File Language:

English

Details

Creators:

Merriam, E. William
Corporate Creators:

Bolt, Beranek, and Newman, inc.
Corporate Contributors:

John A. Volpe National Transportation Systems Center (U.S.) ; United States. Department of Transportation. Federal Railroad Administration
Subject/TRT Terms:
Publication/ Report Number:

DOT-TSC-FRA-77-25 ; TS13305
Resource Type:

Tech Report
Geographical Coverage:

St. Louis (Missouri)
Corporate Publisher:

United States. Department of Transportation. Federal Railroad Administration
Abstract:

This report discusses the computer simulation methodology, its uses and limitations, and its applicability to the analysis of alternative railroad terminal restructuring plans. Included is a detailed discussion of the AAR Simulation System, an overview of twelve other railroad simulations, and an analysis of how they or other simulation systems might aid the restructuring project being conducted by the railroads in St. Louis. Included is critical analysis of what "validation" of simulation means and what it does and does not imply. Also discussed is the meaning of the terms "network" (as in network simulation) and "levels of detail." Simulation builders and rail-roaders view these terms differently, which often results in disappointment with the results of supposedly "successful" simulation ventures. The importance of user familiarity with both the simulation system and railroad problems is stressed. A major conclusion reached is that none of the existing network simulations is suitable for detailed analysis of railroad terminal areas. Development of a simulation system incorporating a new approach for performing such analysis is within the state-of-the-art and is recommended.
Format:

PDF
Download URL:

https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/10788/dot_10788_DS1.pdf
File Type:

[PDF - 1.80 MB]
Collection(s):

Volpe Center
Main Document Checksum:

urn:sha256:7150b8cc39184f904c45e9dbb808202a4cf0cf5acf4b7d5019bbd6f5fc38976c

File Language:

English

ON THIS PAGE

Details

Found an issue?

Send us an email at:

publishinghd@cdc.gov

ROSA P serves as an archival repository of USDOT-published products including scientific findings, journal articles, guidelines, recommendations, or other information authored or co-authored by USDOT or funded partners. As a repository, ROSA P retains documents in their original published format to ensure public access to scientific information.