Simutrans

Simutrans

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Line Programming Suggestion
On a created line, we have the option to program the vehicle to depart when it reaches an "X" occupancy level. It is also possible to configure the vehicle to depart even if the load is not full, if desired. Another option, the "Per Month" mode, allows for scheduling departures at specific times set by the player.

Let’s suppose a train station with two unloading modules already has a train waiting for its scheduled departure time. If another train arrives and occupies the second module before the first one departs, the line programmed to release trains by schedule will end up releasing both at the same time. This happens when the station has more than one unloading module (platform) and there are signals directing trains to available platforms.

My suggestion is that lines programmed by schedule should release only one train at a time, respecting the scheduled departure interval, even if multiple vehicles are at the station.

Personally, I don’t prefer the load-based departure mode, because once the vehicle reaches full capacity, it departs immediately to the next station without respecting any set time. The schedule-based mode, on the other hand, ensures the vehicle waits for its assigned departure time, regardless of its load.

The issue is that when two trains are released simultaneously under the schedule-based mode, the first train picks up all the passengers, while the second, which departed at the same time, runs almost empty. This creates a gap between the second and third trains, potentially overloading the third one.

Therefore, my suggestion is to allow players, when programming a scheduled line, to choose between two options:

Release all vehicles at the station at the same scheduled time;
Or release only one vehicle at a time, making the others wait for their own scheduled departure time.
This flexibility would help fine-tune line operations according to specific needs.