Recent advances in virtually coupled train convoys underscore the significance of short-distance following under complex, dynamic operational conditions. This review evaluates major research approaches and examines key control mechanisms, system requirements, and limitations of dynamic safe distance models. The primary challenges concern convoy heterogeneity and the real-time integration of communication methods, block systems, and braking modes. To address these issues, a design principle for dynamic safe distance modeling is presented that incorporates non-uniform train deceleration and links train control with the effective use of station transport capacity to enhance safety, efficiency, and operational stability. Cooperative control, behavioral consistency, and their interdependence are analyzed, with the safe and efficient steady-following (SESF) state highlighted as a critical objective that enables behavioral consistency in convoys to be achieved progressively over time. Finally, the potential of intelligent control and proactive safety is discussed as promising directions for advancing convoy performance.
Pan et al. (Thu,) studied this question.