Analyzing Theoretical Capacity of the Metro Network of Rotterdam

In this thesis a solution method to calculate the theoretical capacity of a metro network is presented. Using this method, the capacity of the metro network of Rotterdam, operated by the RET, is determined. The method consists of a two-step approach, in which in Phase One all possible routetime combinations are generated, referred to as ’paths’. In Phase Two an optimal selection of paths is made, subject to different constraints, such as minimum headway time, line frequencies and endpoint restrictions. A software tool is developed and presented, where the user can configure its desired parameters for the restrictions. Capacity tests under different conditions are performed for the metro network of Rotterdam. The results of the different capacity tests are analyzed and can be used as an indication for the realizable line-frequencies. Furthermore, we present a heuristic approach, as an alternative to the more time-consuming exact approach. Finally, the results of both methods are compared in order to measure the performance of the heuristic method.