Avanti West Coast has begun trialling a new a timetable optimisation programme which aims to boost train service reliability during unplanned disruptions.
The tool, which was created by the independent digital engineering research organisation Centre for Modelling and Simulation (CFMS), utilises data simulation to formulate prompt recommendations for train services impacted by scenarios including speed restrictions and line closures.
The technology was developed by the Centre for Modelling and Simulation
© Avanti West Coast
Avanti West Coast operational staff enter any factors that might affect planned services and, in return, receive a set of fully optimised timetable suggestions which can be implemented at an instant – allowing trains to continue running wherever possible.
The technology has been designed to support decision making, aiming to reduce delays and cancellations in the face of unforeseen circumstances as well as enable the distribution of more reliable information with customers.
All scenarios are saved on the system for later use, allowing the operator to, in theory, remain better prepared for any unplanned disruption.
The technology will be trialled for one year on Avanti West Coast’s operations on its Anglo-Scot and North Wales routes, which are often affected by severe weather. The trial will also see Avanti explore ways in which the tool could support wider operations, including 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.
Andy Mellors, Managing Director at Avanti West Coast said:
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.
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.
CFMS was awarded funding for the tool through the Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI)’s First of a Kind (FOAK) competition, which is funded by the Department for Transport and delivered by Innovate UK. The programme has since been shortlisted at The Engineer magazine’s Collaborate to Innovate (C2I) Awards.
Sam Paice, CEO at CFMS, said:
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.
This is a major step forward for technology adoption across industries, helping to keep the railways and the UK moving.