Every rail operator endeavors to achieve a maximum share in the transport market by an efficient design of the infrastructure and optimum utilization of the operating resources. Every measure carried out in the fields of infrastructure and operation end in a supply of rail transport services facing and influencing the existing demand in passenger and freight transport. In addition, the marginal conditions of motorized transport have an influence on the extent to which the total demand of transport services can be satisfied. To enable optimum adjustment of infrastructure and operation to the demands of the transport market, a strategic simulation instrument is required which supports the rail operators in their objectives and permits as far as possible an automatic assessment of various scenarios.
Abstract