CFMS has been working with Avanti West Coast to introduce an innovative timetable optimisation tool designed to improve train service reliability and customer experience during unplanned disruption.
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 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 quickly formulate recommendations for train services impacted by scenarios such as speed restrictions and line closures. Avanti West Coast’s operational employees enter the factors that can affect its planned services to receive fully optimised timetable suggestions within minutes, which can be utilised immediately to keep trains running where possible and reduce the impact on customers. The technology is designed to support their 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 – enabling 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 a part of the trial, Avanti West Coast will also explore how the technology 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.
CFMS, who specialise in creating new model-based design methods to consult and assist businesses with digital technologies to improve performance and efficiencies, applied to the Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI)’s 2023 First of a Kind Competition. It is funded by the Department of Transport and delivered by Innovate UK. Avanti West Coast, who work closely with Innovate UK as part of the operator’s commitment to test innovations to transform the railway, partnered with CFMS to try the technology. This pioneering tool has been shortlisted at The Engineer magazine’s Collaborate to Innovate 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, 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.”
About Avanti West Coast
Avanti West Coast, operator of intercity rail services on the West Coast Main Line, is a joint venture between FirstGroup and Trenitalia, delivering a cleaner, greener railway that drives the West Coast forward.
We’re on a mission to revolutionise train travel. Our refurbed Pendolinos returned to the rails in June 2024 following a £117m investment programme that’s delivered the best in class comfort. Known as the UK’s hardest working fleet, all 56 of these iconic trains have been transformed and now boast better seats, improved lighting, new interior carpets, customer-friendly passenger information screens, additional luggage space, power points at every seat and refurbished toilets.
Our new Evero fleet was introduced in June 2024. Built by Hitachi, the 23-strong fleet, consisting of 10 seven-carriage electric trains and 13 five-carriage bi-modes, will serve routes from London to the Midlands, Chester, North Wales and the North West, leading to a substantial cut in carbon emissions with an increase in seats, and offering improved comfort. Quieter and roomier, with more reliable Wi-Fi, wireless charging for electrical devices and a real-time customer information system, these new trains are the result of a £350m investment in sustainable travel.
We’re tackling climate change wherever we can, from reducing energy and water use to training drivers in eco-driving techniques and sourcing food and drink from local suppliers. Our goal is to be net zero carbon by 2031. We’re on track.
For the latest news, visit the Avanti West Coast Media Centre: https://newsdesk.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/
Press Office: 0845 000 3333
About Centre for Modelling and Simulation
CFMS is a National Centre for Modelling and Simulation. We harness cutting-edge technologies to design, model and analyse hypercomplex challenges from our secure on-site data centre. In doing so, we turn unique, extraordinary visions into exciting realities that push the boundaries of possibility.
Our capabilities across model-based engineering, digital prototyping, robotics and autonomous systems combine with our expertise and collaborative teams to provide significant value to organisations. Whether it’s expanding design spaces, reducing uncertainty in novel innovations or increasing efficiency in processes, our capabilities are tailored to achieve the most value for our customers.
Our capabilities are industry agnostic, drawing on significant experience in modelling, simulation and high performance compute to provide solutions to your engineering challenges.
From early careers opportunities through to post-graduate development and CPD, we facilitate and spark growth in our people. Their expertise ensures the most effective application of our capabilities and makes sure we are always advancing our knowledge and understanding of new technologies.
Visit https://cfms.org.uk for more information.