Modelling the Scheduling of Itain Drivers

The application of a bus driver scheduling system using linear programming with heuristics, to the problem of scheduling train drivers in the United Kingdom is described. The speed with which the existing proven system could be amended to model this new situation was of the utmost importance. It was required to produce a model which would allow the user to explore the consequences of implementing possible changes to an existing set of rules for constructing train driver schedules and to determine quickly whether the proposed changes would produce desirable schedules.The prototype was developed on a set of data relating to one depot, and in the first instance the existing constraints were modelled. The data set was then extended to include more depots. Testing on another set of data which exhibited different features to the original, enabled the model to be more thoroughly checked, and allowed the user the opportunity to become familiar with using it Methods were developed which enabled new styles of constraints to be modelled, and the system had to maintain a degree of flexibility to cater for rules which only became necessary as work and testing progressed.The problems which were encountered in modifying the existing system to embrace the practices of railway operation are outlined. Because of the time constraints placed upon the exercise both the model and the data input were the subject of some simplifying assumptions. However, the ease of use of the model by the user and the degree to which the model was successfully used, demonstrated the viability of the project.