23-02-2009, 11:12 AM
After some work on Friday, it appears as if the rate of 0.5m/s/s can be obtained from the curves on GK/RT0034 App A3 (A1 being appropriate but currently under review!). TOPS actually provides the train's speed to the crew based upon available brake force.
Bizarrely, and contrary to the common held view, the shorter the train the less able it is to slow down! However, the norm is headway is a theoretical calculation which is almost impossible to deliver in the real world due to effects such as dwell times, defensive driving and human factors.
I can provide some data on brake build up times if that would help. RGSOnline has the relevant vehicle standards as GM/RT204n (n is 0 to 6).
Bizarrely, and contrary to the common held view, the shorter the train the less able it is to slow down! However, the norm is headway is a theoretical calculation which is almost impossible to deliver in the real world due to effects such as dwell times, defensive driving and human factors.
I can provide some data on brake build up times if that would help. RGSOnline has the relevant vehicle standards as GM/RT204n (n is 0 to 6).
Le coureur