Headway management is the process of controlling the spacing and timing of vehicles in a transit system, such as buses, trains, or ferries. Headway management aims to optimize the service quality, efficiency, and reliability of transit operations, as well as to enhance the safety and comfort of passengers and operators. There are different ways to do headway management in transit, depending on the type of system, the level of demand, the operational constraints, and the available technology. Some of the common methods are:
Fixed schedule
This method assigns a fixed departure time and route for each vehicle, based on a predetermined timetable. The vehicles follow the schedule regardless of the actual traffic conditions or passenger demand. This method is simple and easy to implement, but it may result in uneven headways, overcrowding, or underutilization of vehicles, especially during peak hours or unexpected events.
Headway-based control
This method adjusts the departure time and speed of each vehicle, based on the desired headway (the time interval between two consecutive vehicles) or frequency (the number of vehicles per hour) of service. The vehicles try to maintain a constant or variable headway, depending on the demand pattern and the operational objectives. This method can improve the service regularity and responsiveness, but it may require more sophisticated technology and coordination among vehicles and controllers.
Holding control
This method involves holding or delaying some vehicles at certain locations (such as terminals, stations, or intersections) to regulate the headway or frequency of service. The holding time can be determined by a fixed rule (such as a minimum or maximum headway) or by a dynamic algorithm (such as a feedback or feedforward control). This method can reduce the headway variability and bunching (when two or more vehicles arrive at the same time), but it may increase the travel time and waiting time for passengers and operators.
Vehicle dispatching
This method involves adding or removing some vehicles from service, based on the real-time demand and supply situation. The vehicles can be dispatched from a central depot or from intermediate locations (such as layover points or short-turn loops). This method can balance the demand and supply of service, but it may require more flexible and adaptable vehicles and drivers.
