Avanti West Coast has begun trialling a pioneering new tool to boost train service reliability during unplanned disruption in a world first for transport.
Working with Centre for Modelling and Simulation (CFMS) – an independent digital engineering research organisation – the intercity operator has adopted a timetable optimisation program to support its response to unplanned disruption at the click of a button.
This first of a kind technology created by CFMS uses data simulation to formulate prompt recommendations for train services impacted by scenarios such as speed restrictions and line closures.
Avanti West Coast’s operational 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.
The technology is designed to support decision making, which should reduce delays and cancellations, as well as enable more reliable information to be shared sooner with customers whose journeys are impacted.
Each scenario entered is saved on the system and can be used again for similar situations in the future. This enables the intercity operator to be better prepared for unplanned disruption with access to off the shelf plans.
For one year the technology will be used to support Avanti West Coast’s operations on its Anglo-Scot and North Wales routes, which are often affected by severe weather.
As part of the trial, Avanti will also explore how the tool could support its 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.
The train operator partnered with CFMS who specialise in creating model-based design methods to help businesses use digital technologies to improve performance and efficiencies. The software trial is part of Avanti’s commitment to adopt innovations aimed at improving the railway.
CFMS received funding 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, to develop its technology.
This pioneering tool has been shortlisted at The Engineer magazine’s Collaborate to Innovate (C2I) Awards.
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.”
Sam Paice, CEO at CFMS, commented: “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.”
Image credit: Avanti West Coast
