Crew Scheduling Software
This crew allocation program automates scheduling for metro train operators. It considers train timetables, network layouts, and safety regulations to generate optimized trip charts that minimize duty assignments and travel time. The software also creates rosters, factoring in break/recess requirements. This technology offers scalability for expanding networks and is designed for broader application in public transport, with potential benefits like reduced operational costs and improved efficiency across the entire sector.
Metro systems, like the Delhi Metro, face the challenge of assigning train operators (pilots and co-pilots) while adhering to strict regulations to limit driving hours to prevent fatigue, which could lead to catastrophic consequences. Traditionally, assigning train operators (pilots and co-pilots) to adhere to these complex schedules is a manual process prone to inefficiency and human error. Further, due to extra-ordinary demands on certain occasions (like a cricket match, or a festive occasion), a different timetable would need at a fairly short notice a new crew-allocation: a manual process cannot accommodate such sudden changes in the timetable. A new automated crew allocation program tackles this issue by creating crew schedules that ensure crew members follow safety protocols regarding fatigue. This technology aims to improve efficiency by reducing the time and resources required for scheduling, enhance safety by automating adherence to regulations, and potentially lower operating costs through optimized resource allocation.
- Input Flexibility: The system accepts train timetables in MS Excel format, along with key locations (stations, depots, etc.) and their distances. It can handle changes in network layout, adding new stations or depots as the metro expands.
- Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Integration: The software considers SOPs and policies defined by DMRC for crew allocation, ensuring adherence to safety and work-hour regulations.
Trip Chart Generation: Based on inputs, the system generates optimized trip charts that assign duties to train operators while considering multiple factors:
-Minimizing duty assignments: The program uses a heuristic approach to minimize the total number of duties (number of people assigned). This ensures efficient use of manpower by assigning the fewest possible operators while ensuring all train services have a driver.
-Optimizing travel time between assignments: The system considers dead time between train assignments, aiming to reduce the time a train operator spends traveling as a passenger between driving duties.
-Crew control jurisdiction and home location: The program incorporates requirements such as starting and ending shifts within a specific crew control jurisdiction, ideally where the operator's home is located. This minimizes extra travel time for operators by avoiding the need to take additional trains or metros back to their home jurisdiction after their shift ends.
Roster Creation: The software creates rosters (duty schedules) for train operators based on trip charts and considering factors like:
-Weekly rest requirements
-Gender of the operator (if relevant)
- Output in MS Excel: The system generates trip charts and rosters in MS Excel format for easy integration with existing DMRC workflows.
- Report Generation: It creates reports on attendance, allowances, working hours (including breaks), and train kilometers covered. These reports can be generated daily, monthly, or on-demand in MS Excel or PDF format. The software allows for modification of these reports to reflect actual circumstances.
- Scalability: The system is designed to handle a growing metro network, accommodating changes in layout and number of stations.
The developers plan to make this code free and open-source under the MIT License. Because the code will be freely available and modifiable, metro systems beyond Delhi, like the Mumbai metro, can download and implement the program at no cost. While some customization might be needed, the core functionality can be readily applied. This will not only benefit the established metro systems but also open doors for its adoption in developing regions where budget constraints might hinder access to such technology. By enabling wider use of this software, public transportation systems can improve efficiency, reduce operational costs, and ultimately enhance commuter service.
This crew scheduling software has the potential to be applied beyond metro systems. The developers have successfully implemented a similar program for suburban trains on the Western Railway. The Central Railway has also expressed interest in implementing this technology for suburban trains they manage. Beyond trains, the applicability extends to bus services, where crew allocation is crucial. While adjustments are needed to account for specific industry needs, the core functionality translates well. This suggests the technology's potential for broader application in the public transport sector.