Train Diagram Adjustment via Minimum Interval Sorting

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for adjusting train diagrams by adding extra trains are less automatic and error-prone, lacking objective evaluation and being subjective in nature.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that involve obtaining a first time corresponding to a target passenger flow, adjusting the departure times of trains based on a preset minimum departure time interval, and performing an extra train adding instruction to create an adjusted train diagram, which includes sorting trains and determining adjustments based on specific conditions to ensure a rational and automated process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If the dispatcher manually draws the train diagram and informs train drivers, then the train diagram can be adjusted, but the process is less automatic and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation of train diagram adjustmentVSAvoiderror rate in manual adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically adjusts the train diagram by selecting trains from the candidate set, calculating adjusted departure times based on the minimum departure time interval, and generating the adjusted train diagram without requiring manual dispatcher intervention for each adjustment step

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical process of drawing and communicating train diagram changes is replaced by an automated computer-based system that performs calculations, generates diagrams, and transmits information electronically to train drivers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the dispatcher manually adjusts the train diagram, then flexibility is maintained, but the process is subjective without objective evaluation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in train diagram adjustmentVSAvoidobjectivity of evaluation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses objective parameters such as the minimum departure time interval and passenger flow data to determine train adjustments, replacing subjective dispatcher judgment with quantifiable criteria that can be consistently applied and evaluated

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Quantity of substance

If multiple trains are added to handle large passenger flow, then passenger capacity increases, but the complexity of coordinating departure times increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of trainsVSAvoidcomplexity of departure time coordination
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies different adjustment strategies to different trains based on their specific situations - trains in the candidate set are selected and adjusted according to their individual departure times and the minimum interval requirement, rather than applying a uniform approach to all trains

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the departure time parameter of selected trains from the candidate set while maintaining the minimum departure time interval constraint, allowing multiple trains to be added or adjusted without creating scheduling conflicts

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12002360B2Method and apparatus for adjusting train diagram
Publication Date: 2024.06.04 TRAFFIC CONTROL TECH CO LTD
  • US12002360B2 patent drawing
  • US12002360B2 patent drawing
  • US12002360B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present application discloses a method and apparatus for adjusting a train diagram, the method includes: obtaining a first time of an extra train corresponding to a target passenger flow, and obtaining a set of trains with adjustable departure times based on the first time, in which the set of trains includes at least one train; adjusting a departure time of the at least one train in the set of trains based on a preset minimum departure time interval to obtain an adjusted train diagram; and performing an extra train adding instruction based on the adjusted train diagram.