Timetable management and operational simulation: Methodology and perspectives

Abstract

This article summarizes the fundamental basics for the timetable management of the future. The advantages of a microscopic database and some options for its smart utilisation are shown. After describing some important areas of application of the microscopic methodology, some practical experiences are discussed. The "Seven-Step-Model" is a first attempt to provide a methodology for using microscopic models. The description of the process highlights the iterative approach. The presented methodology can be used for the evaluation of the effort and time requirements for various planning tasks. The article closes with an outlook and a discussion about solving the problems of the planning task in the future.