Avanti West Coast has begun trialling a first-of-its-kind timetable optimisation tool designed to improve reliability.
The system has been created by Centre for Modelling and Simulation (CFMS), an independent digital engineering research organisation.
The solution uses data simulation to formulate prompt recommendations for train services, impacted by unplanned disruption, such as speed restrictions and line closures.
Avanti said its staff enter factors that can affect planned services, to receive fully optimised timetable suggestions, which can be implemented instantly to keep trains running where possible and reduce the impact on customers.
Each scenario entered is saved on the system and can be used again for similar situations in the future.
READ MORE – Cumbria Tourism partners with public transport giants for ‘Go Car Free’ campaign
“Whilst timetable optimisation isn’t a new concept, I’m proud Avanti West Coast is leading the transport industry with this innovative technology that can help us to deliver a better service for customers when things don’t go as planned,” said Andy Mellors, Managing Director at Avanti West Coast.
“Innovation can play a key role in shaping the future of the West Coast, as well as the wider rail industry. By working with the Centre for Modelling and Simulation on this ground-breaking tool, we have the means to make a massive difference in how the rail industry responds to unplanned disruption and keeps customers moving.”
It will be tested for a year on its Anglo-Scot and North Wales routes, which are often affected by severe weather. As part of the trial, they will also explore how the tool could support its wider operations, train crew availability and fleet when it is unable to operate its scheduled timetable due to weather, infrastructure issues or an incident on the line.
“Bringing our significant expertise in modelling and simulation and closely collaborating with Avanti West Coast, we’ve developed a first of a kind tool that has the potential to transform how disruption is managed and minimised,” added Sam Paice, CEO at CFMS.
“This is a major step forward for technology adoption across industries, helping to keep the railways and the UK moving.”
