Optimization of Skip‐Stop Train Schedule in Urban Rail Transit Under Virtual Coupling

Virtual coupling technology enables decoupling and coupling operations of trains more flexible, and the tracking interval between trains is also shortened. This paper analyzes the advantages of virtual coupling technology in the application of skip‐stop operation, and operation strategies based on real‐time train coupling and decoupling are proposed. With the goal of minimizing the total travel time of passengers, an optimization model for skip‐stop timetable under virtual coupling technology is established, which limits the virtual operation location, the number of virtual coupling and decoupling, and the relationship between virtual operation and arrival and departure status of trains. At the same time, an adaptive large‐scale neighborhood search algorithm was designed for model solving. A case study of certain urban rail transit line R, which is a skip‐stop‐operated urban rail transit line, has been carried out. The model and algorithm were validated using real data from the morning peak hour, and the results show that the application of virtual coupling technology can effectively reduce the total travel time of passengers. Under the conditions of this case study, virtual coupling technology can improve service quality. In actual operation, under suitable passenger flow and line conditions, the reasonable use of virtual coupling technology to improve the skip‐stop operation mode can improve the service quality and operational efficiency of urban rail transit.