Abstract
We introduce the decision support tool PANDA (Passenger Aware Novel Dispatching Assistance). Our web-based tool is designed to provide train dispatchers with detailed real-time information about the current passenger flow and the multi-dimensional impact of waiting decisions in case of train delays. After presenting the algorithmic background and PANDA’s main features, we show how it can be utilized in a typical use case scenario for train dispatchers. Besides its practical value for train dispatchers, the framework can be used to systematically study scientific questions. Exemplarily, we use our software to experimentally analyse the influence of waiting decisions on realistic passenger flows of Deutsche Bahn. In a first experiment, we evaluate PANDA’s potential benefit for passengers. Our findings indicate that a remarkable reduction in total delay might be possible in comparison to current practice. In two additional experiments, we investigate the timing aspect of waiting decisions. Our observations suggest that the timing of waiting decisions is of crucial importance and that a carefully implemented early rerouting strategy has a significant potential to reduce resulting delays of passengers.
Highlights
In a fairly complex train traffic network like that of Germany, train disruptions and delays are inevitable
Extending the passenger-oriented delay management as introduced by Berger et al (2011), we present PANDA, a webtool supporting train dispatchers with real-time information about the passenger flow and the impact of waiting decisions
The number of passengers in this group could be reduced by about 50%, if PANDA’s recommendations would be realized
Summary
In a fairly complex train traffic network like that of Germany, train disruptions and delays are inevitable. Passengers may miss some planned transfer which results in significant delays at their destinations, in considerable dissatisfaction, and in economic loss for the railway company. To approach this problem, large railway companies like Deutsche Bahn employ train dispatchers who monitor delays and manually decide which trains shall wait for delayed incoming trains in order to maintain connections for passengers. Large railway companies like Deutsche Bahn employ train dispatchers who monitor delays and manually decide which trains shall wait for delayed incoming trains in order to maintain connections for passengers Such waiting decisions induce further delays, and so train delay management becomes a highly complex optimization problem. That trends like electronic ticketing will enable railway operators to work with high-quality passenger flows in the foreseeable future
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