Abstract

The contribution deals with critical assessment of used analytical and graphic-analytical methods for determining the lines capacity and of problems connected to the capacity formulation. Negative outcomes from executed case studies force us to investigate new approaches, which would result in more accurate capacity determination. Simulation models appear to be an appropriate tool allowing the investigation of the capacity of transport infrastructure in the interaction with the range of traffic. In case of incongruity between the transport infrastructure and the range of traffic operation, the implementation of various arrangements including the economical assessment can be simulated by means of scenarios. At the end of the paper a short list of the experience with the application of simulation modelling on particular lines in the Czech Republic is presented.

Abstract

Increase in city population and size leads to growing transport demand and heterogeneous mobility habits. In turn, this may result in economic and social inequalities within the context of rapid economic growth. Provision of flexible transit in fast-growing cities is a promising strategy to overcome the limits of conventional public transport and avoid the use of private cars, towards better accessibility and social inclusion. This paper presents the case of Dubai (UAE), where a demand responsive transit service called MVMANT (a company based in Italy) has been tested in some low demand districts. The contribution of this work relies on the use of an agent-based model calibrated with Geographic Information System (GIS) real data to reproduce the service and find optimal configurations from both the perspective of the transport operator and the community. Different scenarios were simulated, by changing the vehicle assignment strategy and capacity, and comparing MVMANT with a ride-sharing service with smaller vehicles. Results suggest that route choice strategy is important to find a balance between operator and user costs, and that these types of flexible transit can satisfy transport demand with limited total costs compared to other shared mobility services. They can also be effective in satisfying fluctuating demand by adopting heterogeneous fleets of vehicles. Finally, appropriate planning and evaluation of these services are needed to fully explore their potential in covering the gap between low-quality fixed public transport and unsustainable private transport. Document type: Article

Abstract

The provision of traditional public transport services in rural areas have shown to be very inefficient and ineffective. In fact, rural areas are naturally categorized by low levels of population density leading to complex demand patterns (low levels and high spatial and temporal dispersion), which leads to low levels of service of conventional transport services (low frequencies, usage of old vehicles, etc). Demand Responsive Transport systems have been seen as an effective alternative solution already adopted in several countries. There are however some issues concerning DRT costs and benefits that still have to be addressed. In this research work an integrated analysis incorporating both internal and external costs is proposed aiming to support decision makers investigating the impacts and performance measures related to the adoption of a flexible transportation system solution. Additionally, DRT systems are highly dependent on the correct calibration of some organizational and functional parameters. In this paper, a comprehensive framework to support decision-makers in the design and planning of flexible transportation systems is proposed. The developed approach allows the simulation of different scenarios corresponding to different design alternative solutions. Accurate estimation of their global performance, in terms of both viability and sustainability, can be obtained providing effective support in the design and operational stages of a DRT system implementation in low density areas. Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT) COMPETE - QREN