Analysing the Metro Cityring in Copenhagen

This paper will discuss that when planning new infrastructure it is important that the infrastructure is well suited for the planned operation. This is especially important in case of high frequent operation underground (e.g. metro systems) since it is too expensive to modify the infrastructure later. This paper describes the importance of adapting new infrastructure to the future operation. This will be done based on analyses carried out for the planned ring metro in Copenhagen. The analyses include: (1) different operation alternatives depending on the running time and the number of trains in operation; (2) the necessity of withdrawing rolling stock in case of problems; (3) changes in the frequency during the day; and (4) the stability of the system. The analyses have shown that the possibility to withdraw rolling stock in case of problems and the possibility of changing the frequency is sensitive to the scheduled plan of operation. This is because the possibilities of withdrawing rolling stock and changing the frequency influence the stability of the system. Altogether, this paper demonstrates that the use of micro simulation in the planning phase of new infrastructure can improve the later operation. This is because it is possible to evaluate the future operation and the need for improved infrastructure.