Intermodal transport networks and integrated mobility
How we are annoyed by that bus that leaves the public transport stop to join the road in front of our vehicle. Needless to say when we wait at the end of a crosswalk, because traffic lights always favor drivers. Encourage the use of bicycles? If with so many pedestrians it is impossible to pedal! We spend our lives giving priority to other travelers… Or not?
Many times it happens that our perception is that the rest of the travelers reach their destination faster than us. Whatever the mode of transport we are using in the displacement. Like when we choose one of the supermarket checkouts to pay for the purchase. But… Is it really like that?
Simulation models
When we choose the mode of transport to make a certain trip, various factors influence, such as the total time of the journey, the waiting time, the cost, the comfort, the ease of parking at the origin/destination… For each person the importance of these aspects can be very different, and, therefore, it seems that simulating user behavior can be difficult at first glance.
Simulation models allow us to create transport models that adjust to the characteristics of each territory and the real behavior of users. The objective is to create a tool that facilitates decision-making and allows planning an optimal, efficient and sustainable transport network for society.
The main steps to follow in the creation of a model are the following:
- Construction of the network: Using nodes and arcs, the current network of roads, railways, bike lanes, pedestrian paths… is simulated, which are characterized by travel speed, distance, number of lanes or capacity, among the most important aspects. important.
- Territory zoning: The territory is divided according to homogeneous user behavior characteristics, orography, similar levels of access to the network or the same type of area (residential / industrial / economic development).
- Collection of demand data: Surveys, monetary data, gauging, SAE information, geolocation data by mobile telephone… the use of different methods to obtain the data for the generation of a 4-stage model (Generation – Attraction ) will allow the development of higher quality OD matrices.
- Definition of the TP offer: In the case of public transport, it is necessary to describe in detail the territory’s offer: route, frequency, stops… We usually carry out this process using the GTFS files of each of the operators, thus converting the model into a live tool that is constantly updated.
- Calibration: The adjustment of the model to the real characteristics of the territory is essential. For this, a battery of indicators will be created that indicate the precision of the model and its similarity with reality.
- Assignment: It is a question of distributing the movements of the demand along the transport network of the territory.
- Analysis of scenarios and future estimates: Once we have created the model through the previous steps, we study, for example, the effect of a new infrastructure, the modification of transport services or the variation in transport rates/tolls in a defined horizon scenario. We estimate the behavior of people, the modal change that could occur or the possible problems of saturation of the system.
Transport network optimization
In this way, we not only know the response of the users prior to making changes to the transmission network. We can also plan an intermodal network efficiently, saving large unnecessary investments and optimizing the available budget.
But how do we promote efficient mobility? At INGARTEK we are committed to intermodality between the different modes of transport, working on the networks from a comprehensive and objective point of view. The connection points between the different modes of transport in the network, such as park-and-ride parks or intermodal stations, must be studied in detail.
Should all private vehicles be removed from our roads? Should we always walk or ride a bike? When is an elevator the solution to a complicated orography, or when is it more sustainable to extend the current public transport line to serve that area?
These are problems that usually appear in the daily life of people planning mobility, and their resolution will depend on the specific conditions of each case.
In this process of assessment and search for solutions, simulation models are tools that facilitate decision-making when planning mobility and achieving the defined purposes.
Satisfaction of travelers
The final objective, that the user feels proud of his modal choice, his journey is carried out in the safest and most comfortable way possible and has a transport network that responds to his real needs, being environmentally and economically sustainable.
A greater understanding of the network by users will make our behavior with other travelers more understandable.
Let’s improve the perception of travelers and travelers, it’s time to enjoy the road.