A State-of-the-Art on Simulation Modelling Approaches for Urban Metro Systems

Modelling is a key component in understanding, planning and managing transport systems. Developing models for the metro systems will allow stakeholders to test multiple scenarios, evaluate the impact of interventions, and optimise urban mobility strategies in a cost-effective and low risk setting. This paper will carry out a detailed assessment of existing modelling approaches to identify best practices and gaps in current methodologies through a comprehensive literature review, and eventually informing the critical aspects of metro systems modelling around three major areas, (i) metro network and station; (ii) train interior design; and (iii) metro service and operation optimisations. Modelling approaches reviewed would include agent-based modelling, discrete-event simulation, and scenario-based modelling, as well as their hybrid. Train interior design approaches would cover baggage handling, interior design approaches, and dynamics of passenger flows. Service and operation optimisation would look at how simulation-based approach could help optimising metro services and operations. The outcomes of this paper will be the preferred modelling approach, suitable modelling software package, key input requirements, and commonly used model output metrics, that will directly inform the metro system modelling activities. NEXUS has been co-funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under grant agreement No. 101177985.