Ablaufberg is a software simulation tool for detailed analysis of wagon motion dynamics during the train sorting process on a hump in a marshalling (classification) yard. Simulation of wagon motion dynamics helps determine the optimal hump geometry, the required number and placement of retarders, and the optimal hump sorting speed. The simulation is also useful for verifying the feasibility of wagon group succession times and for optimising retarder exit speeds.
Ablaufberg has proven to be an invaluable tool for the design of marshalling yard humps.
The tool was originally based on a computing program of SBB (designed by Dr. König). The software is currently in its sixth generation. The latest generation provides advanced capabilities for editing input data, visualising results in both graphical and tabular form, and optimising retarder exit speeds. The software provides a user-friendly environment that allows users to measure values directly from graphical outputs and evaluate time and distance margins between successive wagon groups.
References
Ablaufberg has been used off-line for designing the humps for many important modern marshalling yards, for example:
- Zurich Limmattal, SBB, Switzerland
- Basel-Muttenz II SBB, Switzerland
- Vienna Central M.Y., ÖBB, Austria
- Villach South M.Y., ÖBB, Austria
- Linz M.Y., ÖBB, Austria
- Rotterdam-Kijfhoek M.Y., NS, Netherlands
- Osterfeld Sud, DB AG, Germany
- Nymburk, Správa železnic s. o., Czech Republic
Ablaufberg is used on-line for computer-controlled variable humping velocity computations in Zurich Limmattal, Vienna Central and Villach South yards.