Chengshi guidao jiaotong yanjiu (Feb 2024)

Characteristics and Applicability Analysis of Flexible Scheduling for Urban Rail Transit Crews

  • Tianjie XU

DOI
https://doi.org/10.16037/j.1007-869x.2024.02.013
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 27, no. 2
pp. 69 – 72

Abstract

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[Objective] In view of the situation that the flexible crew scheduling method commonly used in foreign metro systems is barely applied in China, the applicability of flexible scheduling in Chinese metro system and the main challenges it faces are investigated and analyzed. [Method] The primary characteristics of metro flexible crew scheduling are introduced. For a specific line of Shanghai rail transit, a flexible crew scheduling scheme applicable to the line is calculated. Parameters such as the number of tasks are compared. The technical and managerial challengers of flexible crew scheduling scheme are analyzed and summarized. [Result & Conclusion] The main characteristics of flexible crew scheduling include the de-emphasis on fixed workgroups, the implementation of check-in and check-out at dispersed times and locations, the option for late-shift drivers to not stay at the depot overnight, and a non-fixed rotation mode. Utilizing specialized software to calculate the results of a flexible crew scheduling scheme for the Shanghai Metro line reveals theoretical savings of up to 19.7% of the total required number of drivers. Additionally, the standard deviation of monthly driving mileages can be reduced from 350.50 km to 43.02 km. The main technical challenges of applying flexible crew scheduling in China include the difficulty in formulating schemes and the reliance on specialized software, as well as real-time update of crew plans in response to frequent scheduling adjustments. Managerial challenges of the scheme include the need for complementary reforms to the management mode, the risk of missed shifts due to drivers not staying overnight, and a lack of driver acceptance. Directly implementing flexible crew scheduling in Chinese metro systems is currently challenging, which calls for a gradual exploration of flexible crew scheduling management modes and optimization strategies that suit the national context.

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