Hi
I'm not aware of any tutorials regarding running trains to a timetable but this is an area that I am interested in. The main problem that I have encountered is getting the AI to do what you want when you want. If the timetable is quite frequent e.g. ECML in and out of KX and Moorgate then the trains have to run exactly to time or the whole sequence gets out of kilter and trains start to backup. In real life the signalman would be able to make adjustments to compensate but we don't have that luxury in trainz.
As a result of this, wherever possible I use the "SCS2006" rule by Thackerlane as the commands contained in this rule make running to a timetable fairly straightforward. This rule contains a Path command which ensures that the trains go exactly where you want them to without them stopping and puzzling out their route. Other commands allow exact speeds to be set to adjust running times just as you want them. The downside to this rule is the learning curve if you aren't familiar with it. It works in all trainz versions from TRS2006 to TS2010 v44088. Unfortunately the Multiplayer version of 2010 and TS12 have broken this rule.
On such as the ECML I have been unable to scan the route with SCS2006 due to the sheer size of it and so I have had to resort to normal driver commands on this route. To get the pathing correct I use the "jsTRF-Path Control" rule with the "Path Control Setpath" and "Autodrive" driver commands. These ensure that the trains go where you want them to without hunting for alternative paths.
As many trains follow the same route every hour or so the "Schedule Library" rule and "Copy Commands From" driver command are indispensable and save you a lot of time as you only need to enter your driver commands once in the Schedule Library and then copy them into the trains driver commands as needed. All these rules and driver commands are by brummfondel.
To control start times I use the "Wait Until II", "Wait Until Minute" and "Wait Until Hour" driver commands. The Wait Until II is by Dap and is most useful but the other two by pgiipg have there uses as well.
To control speeds in between stations I use a driver command called "Set Max Speed To" by nikkia. This is extremely useful and allows speed control in 5 mph blocks. The main problem with the AI is that they always run at the maximum line speed and this driver command allows you to alter that. All the rules are either built in or available from the DLS.
The most difficult problem is when a train can't run to time between two stations even when running at max line speed all the way. The only way that I have found to change this is to increase the max-accel and max-decel figures in the engine-spec. This means that the train will accelerate faster and brake quicker but the gains from this are relatively small unless the distance between stations is quite long with a number of speed restrictions in place e.g. SnC route.
This should get you started but remember that it sometimes takes a while to get things right as there can be a number of conflicting paths through junctions and into and out of stations so a lot of patience is needed to get it all to come together.
Regards
Brian
