In a groundbreaking study published in ‘Chengshi guidao jiaotong yanjiu’ (Research on Urban Transport and Traffic), Song Rui from the China Railway Fourth Survey and Design Institute Group Co., Ltd., has proposed a novel solution to a pressing issue in urban railway construction: the excessive length of usable track at turnout stations. This research is particularly relevant as cities worldwide continue to expand their underground rail networks, and the costs associated with these projects can be staggering.
The challenge arises from the CTCS2+ATO (Chinese Train Control System Level 2 + Automatic Train Operation), which requires longer track lengths due to its built-in safety protection zones. This necessity can inflate civil engineering costs significantly, particularly in densely populated urban areas where space is at a premium. Song Rui emphasizes, “By utilizing virtual ground data and implementing continuation routes, we can maintain safety while drastically reducing the required track length.”
The proposed method involves ensuring accurate stopping positions while establishing continuation routes that effectively shorten the distance between the platform and the basic track joint. In practical terms, this means reducing the distance from 70 meters to just 25 meters at turnout stations. Such a reduction not only minimizes the scale of underground stations but also leads to substantial savings in construction costs.
Moreover, the research highlights key operational strategies, such as a recommended ‘stop and unlock’ method for continuation routes and the placement of safety lines in the forward direction at turnout stations with side tracks. These considerations are crucial for enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring safety during fault scenarios.
The implications of this research are profound for the construction sector. As urban populations grow and the demand for efficient public transport systems increases, the ability to lower costs while maintaining safety and functionality will be a game changer. The construction industry can expect a shift towards more economically viable projects, making urban rail systems more accessible and sustainable.
As cities look to modernize their infrastructure, the findings from Song Rui’s study could shape future developments in railway systems, paving the way for innovative solutions that balance safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. For those interested in the intersection of engineering and urban development, this research is a significant step forward.
For further details, visit the official website of the China Railway Fourth Survey and Design Institute Group Co., Ltd..
