Allocating the right type of train set to a specific train service, in order to achieve the highest profitability from a timetable is perhaps the most important piece in the overall jigsaw puzzle of the planning cycle.
By considering all costs and revenues associated with each train in a timetable, it is possible to allocate the individual train set of a fleet in such a way that the total contribution is maximized.
MP² comprises features to assign the optimal equipment type to services (Fleet Assignment) as well as to optimally adjust the number of carriages for each service (Rolling Stock Optimizer).
Both methods consider different combinations of train services and vehicles and appoint the train set combination that maximizes the total contribution. Revenues are calculated from forecasted passenger figures. The designated train set determines whether all passengers can be carried or if some are spilled. The model considers all expenses of the operation such as electricity, maintenance, rail track access charges etc.
These methods may be used both for long-term equipment assignment and for shorter term adjustments of equipment. One of the unique features with MP2 system is that it can easily be connected to the railway operator’s booking system. With the possibility to work with real time demand data the user is guaranteed an accurate and safe decision support. The system runs in a completely dated environment allowing the user to run either completely dated periods or typical weeks/days.