Sustainability

2024

Jump to: 2023, 2022, 2021

19 pages, 7352 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bus Route Sketching: A Multimetric Analysis from the User’s and Operator’s Perspectives

by Junyong Jang, Yongbin Cho and Juntae Park

Sustainability 2024, 16(16), 7172; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16167172 - 21 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 708

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to develop an optimal bus route search algorithm that considers both the user’s and supplier’s perspectives. The process of providing bus route service involves route network design, route allocation, and operation and management in sequence. Among these, [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study is to develop an optimal bus route search algorithm that considers both the user’s and supplier’s perspectives. The process of providing bus route service involves route network design, route allocation, and operation and management in sequence. Among these, establishing the optimal rationality for route network design in practical applications is challenging, and route modifications often occur during the operation process. To minimize these practical difficulties, this study proposes the Bus Route Sketch (BRS) methodology. This methodology, designed for network-level optimization, distinguishes itself from existing bus route setting methodologies by minimizing travel costs while taking user needs into account. This study yielded positive results, with the evaluation score improving from 8.83 to 9.50 from the supplier’s perspective and from 7.13 to 9.89 from the user’s perspective. This BRS methodology, developed to suit both route planning and operation processes, is expected to be utilized in the practical evaluation, adjustment, and design of bus routes. Full article

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23 pages, 6108 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Heuristic Procedure for Improving the Routing of Urban Waste Collection Vehicles Using ArcGIS

by Israel D. Herrera-Granda, Jaime Cadena-Echeverría, Juan C. León-Jácome, Erick P. Herrera-Granda, Danilo Chavez Garcia and Andrés Rosales

Sustainability 2024, 16(13), 5660; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16135660 - 2 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1370

Abstract

This paper proposes a heuristic procedure created to improve the collection routes obtained with the support of the ArcGIS software and its complement, Network Analyst. After a series of experiments, it was found that the software presents several inconsistencies with logistical and operational [...] Read more.

This paper proposes a heuristic procedure created to improve the collection routes obtained with the support of the ArcGIS software and its complement, Network Analyst. After a series of experiments, it was found that the software presents several inconsistencies with logistical and operational management concepts, such as the unnecessary realization of U-turns in a dead end and unnecessary access to areas with difficult access to a single customer. These are issues that a collection route planner must consider to make a good decision that considers the cost of visiting areas with difficult access and the benefits of reaching that area. In this sense, our heuristic procedure considers a set of best practices in operational and logistical strategies that could be programmed within the Network Analyst. As it is well known in the science of vehicle routing, U-turns and sub-tours in the routes travelled by vehicles increase distances and operating costs, so in our work, we propose a systematic heuristic procedure to reduce the number of U-turns performed by a municipal waste collection truck, while using the ArcGIS-Network Analyst add-on to reduce the number of sub-tours in the route under the Directed-Capacitated Arc Routing Problem approach. It is then shown how the routes improved using our conceptual heuristic procedure, which provides better quality than the original routes obtained with ArcGIS and Network Analyst. Specifically, reducing the total distances travelled by the vehicle fleet, increasing the coverage of sidewalks visited by the truck in the urban perimeter of a city, and minimizing the time used in municipal solid waste collection operations. The importance of our work lies in the fact that effective MSW management is an essential municipal service whose regulation can drive innovation, sustainability, and efficiency in the MSW sector. Full article

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28 pages, 5613 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Empowering Urban Public Transport Planning Process for Medium-Sized Cities in Developing Countries: Innovative Decision Support Framework for Sustainability

by Natthapoj Faiboun, Pongrid Klungboonkrong, Rungsun Udomsri and Sittha Jaensirisak

Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4731; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114731 - 1 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1173

Abstract

The challenges resulting from rapid economic growth, urbanization, and increased motorization in developing nations necessitate a comprehensive and sustainable approach to urban public transport planning. While sustainable urban public transport (SUPT) planning offers a solution, the complexity of choosing suitable policy measure options [...] Read more.

The challenges resulting from rapid economic growth, urbanization, and increased motorization in developing nations necessitate a comprehensive and sustainable approach to urban public transport planning. While sustainable urban public transport (SUPT) planning offers a solution, the complexity of choosing suitable policy measure options remains a challenge. This study first introduces a decision support framework (DSF) that integrates the sustainable urban public transport manual (SUPTM) adopted for generating the potential SUPT policy measure options, the KonSULT knowledge base applied for providing the performance scores of each measure option for all determined criteria, and the HMADM (including FAHP, FSM, and TOPSIS) technique to create, rank, and select SUPT policy measure options tailored to medium-sized urban areas in developing nations. A case study of Khon Kaen City, Thailand, illustrates the practical application of the framework, resulting in a set of 31 (91.2%) out of the total of 34 ranked policy measure options. Comparing these prioritizations with the city’s existing plan reveals a substantial agreement, which suggests the potential applicability of the DSF. Overall, the DSF marks a significant advancement in SUPT planning, which is crucial for shaping efficient, equitable, and environmentally conscious urban mobility in developing countries, which are undergoing transformative change. Full article

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18 pages, 7840 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Method for Delivery Planning in Urban Areas with Environmental Aspects

by Michał Lasota, Aleksandra Zabielska, Marianna Jacyna, Piotr Gołębiowski, Renata Żochowska and Mariusz Wasiak

Sustainability 2024, 16(4), 1571; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16041571 - 13 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1026

Abstract

This article presents research results on a multi-aspect assessment of delivery planning in the urban transport network. The distribution of goods and the operation of a network of small services in urban agglomerations is a very important decision-making problem. This is due, on [...] Read more.

This article presents research results on a multi-aspect assessment of delivery planning in the urban transport network. The distribution of goods and the operation of a network of small services in urban agglomerations is a very important decision-making problem. This is due, on one hand, to the dense development of urban areas and, on the other hand, to the increasing restrictions on minimizing harmful exhaust gases emitted by cars. Hence, many researchers are looking for decision support methods that take into account many partial points of view in the field of transport services for small service companies located in urban areas. The authors present a method of multi-criteria decision support in the planning of urban supplies, taking into account the minimization of emissions of harmful compounds (carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter), the cost, time, and amount of ecosystem exposure to these compounds. An important aspect of this research was to identify partial criteria of the decision support methodology and the definition of decision variants. The partial criteria included cost, time, and the amount of exposure of the ecosystem to harmful compounds. The Saaty method was used to determine the weights of the criteria. Full article

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23 pages, 6110 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Navigating Uncertainty: A Framework for Optimising Public Transport Networks’ Performance

by Gang Lin, Honglei Xu, Shaoli Wang, Conghua Lin, Fan Zhang and Junxiang Zhu

Sustainability 2024, 16(3), 1325; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16031325 - 4 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1143

Abstract

Public transport (PT) networks face significant challenges in achieving optimal outcomes due to the presence of risk and uncertainty. Despite the importance of optimising PT networks’ performance, limited research has applied risk management tools to tackle this issue. In response, this study presents [...] Read more.

Public transport (PT) networks face significant challenges in achieving optimal outcomes due to the presence of risk and uncertainty. Despite the importance of optimising PT networks’ performance, limited research has applied risk management tools to tackle this issue. In response, this study presents a three-stage framework to optimise PT networks’ performance in uncertain conditions. First, we establish a PT criteria matrix using an analytic hierarchy process to develop a criteria model and calculate the criteria weightings. Second, we propose a multi-aspiration-level goal programming approach to optimise a PT network’s performance based on the weighted results. To manage uncertainty, we use Monte Carlo simulation to analyse the probability of the optimal solution. Finally, to validate our approach, we apply the three-stage framework to three case study areas in Australia. The results of this research offer significant insights into identifying the likelihood of criteria optimisation scenarios, thereby assisting decision makers in allocating resources for optimising the delivery of PT network performance solutions in accordance with government requirements. Full article

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2023

Jump to: 2024, 2022, 2021

15 pages, 1529 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Public Transport Usage and Perceived Service Quality in a Large Metropolitan Area: The Case of Porto

by Hudyeron Rocha, Manuel Filgueiras, José Pedro Tavares and Sara Ferreira

Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 6287; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15076287 - 6 Apr 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3134

Abstract

Using public transport as an alternative to private motorized vehicles (PMVs) is becoming increasingly popular in many cities worldwide. To understand what incentives and enhancements are necessary to attract and retain more passengers, a comprehensive understanding of the quality of public transport services [...] Read more.

Using public transport as an alternative to private motorized vehicles (PMVs) is becoming increasingly popular in many cities worldwide. To understand what incentives and enhancements are necessary to attract and retain more passengers, a comprehensive understanding of the quality of public transport services is essential. This study aims to broaden the existing literature on the knowledge of public transport services in a large, heterogeneous metropolitan area. A cross-examination between a binary and an ordinal logit model is proposed, using data from a mobility survey in the Porto Metropolitan Area (PMA) in Portugal. The results show that households use PMVs mainly for speed (58.8%), comfort (49.3%), and lack of public transport to the destination (35.7%). Households using public transport cite not driving/owning a PMV (52.6%), lack of alternative transport modes (49.1%), and service cost (38.2%) as primary reasons. The perceived service quality (PSQ) within the PMA exhibits variance on multiple levels, depending on the characteristics of the household and the municipality’s location. This study provides policymakers of different cities in the PMA with insight into what incentives would most effectively increase the PSQ and, in turn, attract more passengers. This insight would be valuable in developing strategies to improve public transport usage and reduce PMV usage in the PMA. Adopting these strategies will contribute to reducing environmental impact and reducing traffic congestion. Full article

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15 pages, 1148 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Problem of Reliability in Public Transport for the Metropolis GMZ Area-Pilots Studies

by Agnieszka Gaschi-Uciecha

Sustainability 2023, 15(4), 3199; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15043199 - 9 Feb 2023

Viewed by 2546

Abstract

Ensuring the sustainable development of transportation whether it involves a country, a city or a metropolitan area is becoming a priority for modern Europe. Therefore, the development of sustainable transportation is crucial in cities. It should aim to increase the number of trips [...] Read more.

Ensuring the sustainable development of transportation whether it involves a country, a city or a metropolitan area is becoming a priority for modern Europe. Therefore, the development of sustainable transportation is crucial in cities. It should aim to increase the number of trips made by public transportation while minimizing social costs and negative environmental impacts. The intensive development of cities from industrial to service-based and the phenomenon of suburbanization require changes in public transport services. Often, however, carriers do not change existing lines and stops and schedules justifying this by passenger habits. This approach can cause a mismatch between the availability of public transportation services and the demand for these services. Therefore, planning and improving the public transportation system should be based on careful analysis. There are different approaches to this problem. The article uses the Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) method to assess service quality, including reliability, where the main measurement tool was a survey questionnaire. A pilot studies has been conducted to present the opinion of residents of the Górnośląsko-Zagłębiowskiej Metropolis (GZM) on specific parameters of public transportation. The GZM is a large metropolitan area in the Silesian province, consisting of 41 municipalities. The metropolitan area is inhabited by more than 2.3 million people and covers an area of about 2550 square kilometers. The results of the pilot studies are a contribution to further research and may be useful to understand the essence of reliability in public transport. Full article

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15 pages, 2858 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mobility Nodes as an Extension of the Idea of Transfer Nodes—Solutions for Smaller Rail Stations with an Example from Poland

by Maciej Kruszyna and Jacek Makuch

Sustainability 2023, 15(3), 2106; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15032106 - 22 Jan 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1734

Abstract

This paper presents the idea of extending transfer nodes to mobility nodes as objects with more functions than just transport. Mobility hubs are often associated with large stations; however, they can be implemented at all or almost all stations. The main purpose of [...] Read more.

This paper presents the idea of extending transfer nodes to mobility nodes as objects with more functions than just transport. Mobility hubs are often associated with large stations; however, they can be implemented at all or almost all stations. The main purpose of this study is (1) to show the potential of treating smaller railway stations as mobility hubs; (2) to formulate a methodology for classifying such nodes; and (3) to discuss the usefulness of the constructed methodology on a selected example. The method proposed here consists of five stages of identification and classification of mobility nodes and includes three categories and 10 criteria for assessing the level of service (LOS) at a selected station. The proposed method may be useful for evaluating mobility nodes and identifying those which require improvement. The presented concept can be used to formulate plans for the development of nodes. Broadly speaking, the proposed methodology could be useful for designing high LOS nodes from the first stages of planning. Full article

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2022

Jump to: 2024, 2023, 2021

24 pages, 4453 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Shuttle Bus Timetable Adjustment in Response to Behind-Schedule Commuter Railway Disturbance

by Yinfei Feng, Zhichao Cao and Silin Zhang

Sustainability 2022, 14(24), 16708; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142416708 - 13 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1907

Abstract

Shuttle bus connection is a valid technique to handle unplanned problems and promote sustainable transportation. The study describes tools that facilitate the shuttle bus timetable adjustment responding to a disturbance resulting from behind-schedule trains on a commuter railway. This behind-schedule disturbance is divided [...] Read more.

Shuttle bus connection is a valid technique to handle unplanned problems and promote sustainable transportation. The study describes tools that facilitate the shuttle bus timetable adjustment responding to a disturbance resulting from behind-schedule trains on a commuter railway. This behind-schedule disturbance is divided in four stages allowing for different delay ranges. The problem and its solution involve different elements, such as shuttle bus route selection, stop location, and timetable adjustment. We propose a nonlinear integer programming model, in which the objective function is based on the waiting, travelling, and walking costs for passengers as well as the operation cost of the route chosen. Vehicle capacity constraints and precise passengers’ waiting times are considered. A genetic algorithm and a simulated annealing algorithm combined with a priori decomposition are used to derive an efficient solution. A case study of a shuttle bus serving the Jinshan Railway in Shanghai, China, is tested to validate that, compared to the no-planning timetable, the total cost of the optimized timetable is reduced by 7.6%, especially including a dramatic reduction in the cost of passenger waiting time by 49.1%. Full article

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18 pages, 1748 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mobility Patterns of Scholar Communities in Southwestern European Countries

by Joana Lage, Ana d’Espiney, Nuno Canha, Vítor Manteigas, José Luís Alexandre, Karla Gonçalves, Ricardo Chacartegui, Jesus Lizana, Yolanda Lechón, Ana Rosa Gamarra, Amaia Fernandez, Patrice Blondeau, Margarida Gomes and Susana Marta Almeida

Sustainability 2022, 14(24), 16704; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142416704 - 13 Dec 2022

Viewed by 1730

Abstract

The present study aimed to provide an in-depth assessment of the commuting patterns of scholar communities of southwestern European countries and to identify measures to improve their sustainable performance regarding mobility. The adopted methodology characterised the mobility pattern of students as a sustainability [...] Read more.

The present study aimed to provide an in-depth assessment of the commuting patterns of scholar communities of southwestern European countries and to identify measures to improve their sustainable performance regarding mobility. The adopted methodology characterised the mobility pattern of students as a sustainability indicator and the availability of related infrastructures and local public transport network. Data were gathered by qualitative (behavioural questionnaires) and quantitative (technical audits) approaches, based on measurable indicators (key performance indicators and scores (ranging between 0–5)). Overall, French schools showed the best sustainable performance regarding mobility (2.0) and Gibraltar had the lowest (1.2). The existence of bike parking and electric car charging points were the main weaknesses founds (with their related mean scores being 0.6 and 0.2, respectively). The score associated with annual CO₂ emissions due to students’ mobility had the best performance, where all countries managed to obtain an average of 3.1. The global score, which assessed the sustainable performance of scholar communities regarding mobility, had a mean value of 1.5 for all studied countries, which highlights the potential for improvement of the studied schools, mainly targeting the public transport network optimisation and the enhancement of scholar infrastructures concerning bicycle parking and electric cars. Full article

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20 pages, 6079 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying Different Sources of the Benefit: Simulation of DRT Operation in the Heartland and Hinterland Regions

by Hyunmyung Kim, Jaeheon Choi, Sungjin Cho, Feng Liu, Hyungmin Jin, Suhwan Lim, Dongjun Kim, Jun Lee and Chang-Hyeon Joh

Sustainability 2022, 14(24), 16519; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142416519 - 9 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1744

Abstract

DRT service, designed to be flexible in time and space, follows the contemporary trend of on-demand transit provision. However, this type of service often suffers from low profitability due to small demand and/or high operation costs. DRT service is a local business in [...] Read more.

DRT service, designed to be flexible in time and space, follows the contemporary trend of on-demand transit provision. However, this type of service often suffers from low profitability due to small demand and/or high operation costs. DRT service is a local business in nature. The existing research primarily focuses on DRT service for regions with low transit demand, but it does not take into account service operation for other types of regions. This study aims to fill in this gap and identify the sources of benefit from DRT operations in varied types of regions. To this end, the analysis compares the DRT operation performance between overpopulated heartland and underpopulated hinterland regions; in each region, the benefit is identified through the difference in key performance indices between the simulated DRT and actual bus operation. The data on the road network and bus operation in Daegu, Korea, in 2021 are used for the DRT simulation. The results show that the heartland DRT benefits more from the reduced vehicle kilometers, while the hinterland DRT gains mostly from the reduced waiting time. Given that both DRT types outperform existing bus services, it is revealed that the heartland DRT is more reliable than the hinterland DRT due to the nature of regional characteristics. Full article

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29 pages, 7258 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Accessibility of Public Transport by Using Temporal and Spatial Analysis

by Renata Żochowska, Marcin Jacek Kłos, Piotr Soczówka and Marcin Pilch

Sustainability 2022, 14(23), 16127; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142316127 - 2 Dec 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3310

Abstract

The development of sustainable transport is a priority in cities. It should aim to increase the number of trips made by public transport while minimizing social costs and the negative impact on the environment. The intensive development of cities from industrial to service-oriented [...] Read more.

The development of sustainable transport is a priority in cities. It should aim to increase the number of trips made by public transport while minimizing social costs and the negative impact on the environment. The intensive development of cities from industrial to service-oriented and the phenomenon of suburbanization require changes in public transport services. However, often, operators do not change existing lines and stops or timetables justifying it with passenger habits. This approach may cause a discrepancy between the accessibility of public transport services and the demand for these services. Therefore, planning and improving the public transport system should be based on careful analyses. There are various approaches to this problem. The article presents a method to assess accessibility of public transport services using spatial and temporal analysis. The proposed method is based on dividing the area into basic fields and then, using appropriately selected measures, each field is assessed in terms of both the current level of accessibility of public transport services and the potential transport demand. A comparative analysis with the use of spatial tools indicates the degree of matching of these values and enables the identification of areas (basic fields) in which improvement of public transport services is required. For the proposed method, a case study was carried out for the city of Czeladź, located in Metropolis GZM in the southern part of Poland. The method can support decision making to improve the current public transport system. Full article

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26 pages, 6503 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Feedback Analysis Automation Using Business Intelligence Technology in Companies Organizing Urban Public Transport

by Michał Bańka, Jakub Daniłowski, Mirosław Czerliński, Jakub Murawski, Renata Żochowska and Aleksander Sobota

Sustainability 2022, 14(18), 11740; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141811740 - 19 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2598

Abstract

In companies organizing urban public transport, passengers’ feedback is usually collected personally, by phone, by e-mail, or via the Internet. Business Intelligence tools enable this process by automating the data flow between systems used to collect, process, and analyse data by applying analytical [...] Read more.

In companies organizing urban public transport, passengers’ feedback is usually collected personally, by phone, by e-mail, or via the Internet. Business Intelligence tools enable this process by automating the data flow between systems used to collect, process, and analyse data by applying analytical Business Intelligence tools. The most important advantage resulting from implementing the tool is facilitating contact between the company and passengers, which allows for an immediate response to the information reported by passengers by introducing the changes in passenger service offered by the company. Another advantage of the discussed tools is the ability to analyse the collected data quickly and easily. Due to the low implementation costs, the developed tool is dedicated mainly to the companies organizing urban public transport. The article presents an example of the use of Power BI tools in the Metropolitan Transport Authority, a company that is the largest organizer of public transport in Poland. Full article

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15 pages, 2465 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Equity Assessment of Bus Travel Behavior for Pilgrimage: Evidence from Lhasa, Tibet, China

by Gang Cheng, Leishan Guo and Tao Zhang

Sustainability 2022, 14(17), 10486; https://doi.org/10.3390/su141710486 - 23 Aug 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1517

Abstract

Travel equity has always been an important but difficult topic in urban traffic research, especially for different groups. Firstly, based on bus operation, this paper constructs the ride change network using the ArcGIS platform. Secondly, through network analysis and based on the transfer [...] Read more.

Travel equity has always been an important but difficult topic in urban traffic research, especially for different groups. Firstly, based on bus operation, this paper constructs the ride change network using the ArcGIS platform. Secondly, through network analysis and based on the transfer network, the time measurement model of bus stops and the time accessibility measurement model of the traffic zones are used to measure and analyze bus stops and traffic zones, respectively. Finally, combined with the global and local spatial autocorrelation model, the travel space allocation equilibrium of pilgrimage is quantified. This case study shows that the time accessibility index reflects the fairness of pilgrimage resource allocation well. According to the overall and local Moran’s I index, the spatial distribution of the configuration equilibrium of the traffic zone is obtained. This paper offers two contributions to the literature: an assessment of the travel fairness of pilgrimage and conclusions that fill the research gaps on the travel equity of vulnerable groups. In this paper, the spatial fairness of pilgrimage behavior is studied, which reflects the fairness and balance of the public transportation system for pilgrimage, as well as the travel fairness of pilgrimage in various regions. The presented knowledge can promote the fairness of residential travel and achieve social equity. Full article

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19 pages, 270 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Common Sharing or Public Sharing: A Study on the Choice Behavior of Urban Citizens in Public Travel

by Yapeng Li

Sustainability 2022, 14(15), 9459; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14159459 - 2 Aug 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1534

Abstract

Public travel is an important support for urban citizens’ production and life. As a collective choice behavior, there are different action logics behind the common sharing travel and public sharing travel in China. It is beneficial to provide public travel services to citizens [...] Read more.

Public travel is an important support for urban citizens’ production and life. As a collective choice behavior, there are different action logics behind the common sharing travel and public sharing travel in China. It is beneficial to provide public travel services to citizens and improve the performance of urban governance by sorting out the different public travel types and their inner choice logics. A fuzzy set of qualitative, comparative analyses reveals that citizens’ choice of common sharing travel or public sharing travel consists of two paths, in which user size, rule attainment, convenience, and travel distance are important triggers. The government and enterprises should improve the combined supply of each factor to enhance citizens’ public travel experience, guide citizens’ public travel choice behavior, and help the development of a common sharing travel industry so as to promote the construction of green transportation, public transport cities, and smart cities. Full article

22 pages, 2943 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Location of the Vertical Handrail to Improve the Accessibility of Wheelchair Passengers Boarding and Alighting at Metro Stations—A Pilot Study

by Sebastian Seriani, Vicente Aprigliano Fernandes, Paola Moraga and Fabian Cortes

Sustainability 2022, 14(15), 9224; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14159224 - 27 Jul 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2287

Abstract

Acknowledging the possible impacts of the location of a vertical handrail on the accessibility of wheelchair passengers, this study explores different dimensions of the vertical handrail and elements of the internal space of a metro carriage and how they can impact the behaviour [...] Read more.

Acknowledging the possible impacts of the location of a vertical handrail on the accessibility of wheelchair passengers, this study explores different dimensions of the vertical handrail and elements of the internal space of a metro carriage and how they can impact the behaviour of passengers. For this purpose, simulation scenarios have been developed with different configurations of the location of the vertical handrail, which includes variables such as the number of passengers boarding and alighting and the type of relationship that exists between them. In this way, participants have been recruited for the simulation in a controlled environment, using a mock-up with characteristics and dimensions representing the space inside a metro carriage. The results show that the current location, that is, in the centre of the carriage, affects the accessibility of wheelchair users. Similarly, it has been observed that placing the handrail on one side of the train has positive effects on the accessibility of these users since the boarding time is considerably reduced. In addition, it has been shown that the relationship between passengers who hold on to the vertical handrail has an impact on the accessibility of wheelchair users. If passengers holding the handrail know each other, they will use less space inside the metro, and therefore, the boarding time is reduced. Finally, a series of recommendations have been proposed for future research, for example, carrying out new simulations with a more significant number of passengers, considering other types of disabilities. Full article

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15 pages, 886 KiB

Open AccessReview

Smart Cities and Transportation: Reviewing the Scientific Character of the Theories

by Mihai Burlacu, Răzvan Gabriel Boboc and Eugen Valentin Butilă

Sustainability 2022, 14(13), 8109; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14138109 - 2 Jul 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4061

Abstract

The concept “smart city” nowadays designates a plethora of things. The multiple meanings associated with the smart city, and its imperfect synonym the “robotic city”, continue to provide a topic of debate. In this paper we aim to present an epistemologically grounded review [...] Read more.

The concept “smart city” nowadays designates a plethora of things. The multiple meanings associated with the smart city, and its imperfect synonym the “robotic city”, continue to provide a topic of debate. In this paper we aim to present an epistemologically grounded review of articles focused on the concept of “smart city” and its correlatives. The goal of this article is to ascertain whether the scientific character of the theories employed in such articles is discussed and/or ascertained. For this purpose, we used Popper’s method of falsification: a theory’s scientific character is determined by its falsifiability and eventual falsification. Papers from the literature were extracted using the PRISMA method, and 15 studies were assessed as eligible for analysis. Most conclusions and results expounded in the articles reviewed that claim to be scientific are arguably based on the unsound logic of verification and confirmation rather than falsification. This has the detrimental effect of reducing to the category of logically false universal instantiations the majority of conclusions about (a) smart city services and infrastructures, (b) intelligent transportation systems and (c) blockchain/Internet of Things. Full article

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18 pages, 3651 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Real-Time Control Strategy for Bus Operation to Alleviate Bus Bunching

by Yunqiang Xue, Meng Zhong, Luowei Xue, Haokai Tu, Caifeng Tan, Qifang Kong and Hongzhi Guan

Sustainability 2022, 14(13), 7870; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14137870 - 28 Jun 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2230

Abstract

In order to alleviate bus bunching and improve the balance and punctuality rate of bus operation, a single-line real-time control strategy based on Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) was proposed. The strategy took three measures: controlling the cruising speed, dwell time, and the bus [...] Read more.

In order to alleviate bus bunching and improve the balance and punctuality rate of bus operation, a single-line real-time control strategy based on Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) was proposed. The strategy took three measures: controlling the cruising speed, dwell time, and the bus load rate to improve the stability of bus operations and to ensure its running speed. At the same time, the proposed strategy was compared with the literature on the traditional single-point control strategy based on timetable (S1 for short) and the multi-point control strategy based on time headway (S2 for short). Finally, the No. 245 bus line in Nanchang City, China, was selected as a case. It was modeled and simulated by Python programming software, and the control effects of the three control strategies were analyzed. Compared with the uncontrolled bus operations, the simulation results show that: under the control of S1, the bus operation stability is improved, but the bus operation efficiency is reduced; under the control of S2, the problem of S1 operation efficiency reduction can be solved, and the operation stability can be improved at the same time to achieve the effect of preventing bunching. For the real-time control strategy (S3 for short), the average bus travel time is the smallest, the distance between the buses is maintained the best, and the running stability is also the best, which avoids the bus bunching to the greatest extent. Among them, the average travel time is reduced by about 34% compared with the second strategy. This study provides a theoretical basis and strategy reference for bus operators to ensure balanced bus operation. Full article

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22 pages, 7423 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Future of Public Transport: Example of Warsaw

by Marek Bauer and Kinga Bauer

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7268; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127268 - 14 Jun 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2420

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic is completely changing the transport customs of city residents. It has decreased the number of travels and has affected changes in the division of transport means. This article presents a case study of the city of Warsaw, attempting to describe [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic is completely changing the transport customs of city residents. It has decreased the number of travels and has affected changes in the division of transport means. This article presents a case study of the city of Warsaw, attempting to describe the process of changes in the use of public transport in daily trips in the following months of the pandemic. Statistical data on the public transport offer, number of passengers, and tickets sold in 2017–2021, which are available in monthly and annual bulletins issued by the public transport organizer, were used. The knowledge base was supplemented with the results of surveys conducted among the city’s residents. The obtained data were organized and analyzed using descriptive statistics methods. The study findings reveal that the lower use of public transport for travel during the COVID-19 pandemic is mainly due to the imposed limits on the number of passengers and is also linked to changes in the structure of the tickets purchased, especially a significant decrease in the sale of long-distance tickets, which implies the loss of a significant number of most valuable, regular users. It was also observed that the appraisal of public transport did not deteriorate, which allowed to expect with optimism the return of passengers after the pandemic. Therefore, a package of possible steps to be taken to restore confidence in public transport and to enable return of lost passengers is presented. The results of the analyses show how easily passengers can be lost and why it is so important to ensure the functioning of public transport even in crisis situations such as a pandemic. These results can also be applied in transport policy updates. Full article

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19 pages, 4581 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Evolution Analysis of Complex Topology and Node Importance in Shenzhen Metro Network from 2004 to 2021

by Yangyang Meng, Qingjie Qi, Jianzhong Liu and Wei Zhou

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 7234; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14127234 - 13 Jun 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2717

Abstract

With the prosperous development of the urban metro network, the characteristics of the topological structure and node importance are changing dynamically. Most studies focus on static comparisons, and dynamic evolution research is rarely conducted. It is necessary to track the dynamic evolution mechanism [...] Read more.

With the prosperous development of the urban metro network, the characteristics of the topological structure and node importance are changing dynamically. Most studies focus on static comparisons, and dynamic evolution research is rarely conducted. It is necessary to track the dynamic evolution mechanism of the metro network from the perspective of development. In this paper, the Shenzhen Metro Network (SZMN) topology from 2004 to 2021 was first modeled in Space L. Five kinds of node centralities in eight periods were measured. Then, the dynamic evolution characteristics of the SZMN network topology and node centralities were compared. Finally, an improved multi-attribute decision-making method (MADM) was used to evaluate the node importance, and the spatiotemporal-evolution mechanism of the node importance was discussed qualitatively and quantitatively. The results show that, with the spatiotemporal evolution of the SZMN, the nodes became more and more intensive, and the network tended to be assortative. The different kinds of node centralities changed variously over time. Moreover, the node importance of the SZMN gradually dispersed from the core area of Chegongmiao–Futian to the direction of the Airport and Shenzhen North. The node importance evolves dynamically over time, and it is closely related to the changes in the node type, surrounding nodes and whole network environment. This study reveals the dynamic evolution mechanism of the complex topology and node importance in the SZMN, which can provide scientific suggestions and decision support for the planning, construction, operation management and resilient sustainable development of the urban metro. Full article

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19 pages, 1507 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Social Constraints, Mobility Incentives, and Restrictions on Commuters’ Behavioral Intentions and Moral Obligation towards the Metro-Bus Service in Lahore

by Muhammad Ashraf Javid, Nazam Ali, Tiziana Campisi, Giovanni Tesoriere and Krisada Chaiyasarn

Sustainability 2022, 14(5), 2654; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14052654 - 24 Feb 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5332

Abstract

This paper aims to identify commuters’ perceptions towards the metro-bus service system considering various social constraints, mobility incentives and restrictions, and personal norms. A questionnaire survey was designed, which consisted of the personal information of respondents, travel properties, and preferences with the metro-bus [...] Read more.

This paper aims to identify commuters’ perceptions towards the metro-bus service system considering various social constraints, mobility incentives and restrictions, and personal norms. A questionnaire survey was designed, which consisted of the personal information of respondents, travel properties, and preferences with the metro-bus system. This survey was conducted in Lahore city, and a total of 333 samples were obtained. The findings of the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) revealed that the social constraints in traveling, public transport incentives, and specific parking restrictions have a significant influence on commuters’ moral obligations to reduce traffic congestion, mitigate environmental menaces, and protect natural resources. The ANOVA and SEM analysis showed that significant differences exist among low-, middle-, and high-income commuters in terms of their behavioral intentions towards the metro-bus service. These findings implicate that specific incentives on the use of public transport modes and parking restrictions are useful in changing the behavioral intentions of travelers towards transit modes such as the metro-bus service. Full article

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22 pages, 3107 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Use of Universal Simulation Software Tools for Optimization of Signal Plans at Urban Intersections

by Peter Bindzar, Daniel Macuga, Jaroslaw Brodny, Magdalena Tutak and Marcela Malindzakova

Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2079; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042079 - 11 Feb 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2933

Abstract

Intersections in cities are important transport hubs, where traffic flows from all roads meet, connect, disconnect or intersect. This research is dedicated to the creation of simulation models of intersections and is based on real observations of two crossroads in a city. The [...] Read more.

Intersections in cities are important transport hubs, where traffic flows from all roads meet, connect, disconnect or intersect. This research is dedicated to the creation of simulation models of intersections and is based on real observations of two crossroads in a city. The principle is based on observing traffic flows using real traffic counting at peak times. The aim is to reduce traffic congestion by adjusting signal plans on the monitored section using computer simulation and modelling in ExtendSim8 software, which is a universal tool allowing the user to simulate any system or process by creating a logical representation in an easy-to-use format. According to our preliminary literature research, the ExtendSim software has never before been used before to create an intersection simulation to optimize the signal plan. There are several specialized software products for simulating traffic and intersections, but not everyone has access to these, or else they require lengthy user training. Therefore, it is very advantageous to use a universal simulation tool that is not used for traffic simulation at intersections in the city. The article points out that a universal simulation program such as ExtendSim can also be used in the design or assessment of signal plans at intersections. Full article

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2021

Jump to: 2024, 2023, 2022

15 pages, 4300 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization Model of Transit Route Fleet Size Considering Multi Vehicle Type

by Huasheng Liu, Yuqi Zhao, Jin Li, Yu Li and Xiangtao Gao

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 193; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14010193 - 25 Dec 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3767

Abstract

This paper proposes a bus line capacity optimization design model considering the scale of multiple vehicles, which is achieved by minimizing system operating costs and user costs. The proposed model takes into account the difference of passenger demand in different periods, and can [...] Read more.

This paper proposes a bus line capacity optimization design model considering the scale of multiple vehicles, which is achieved by minimizing system operating costs and user costs. The proposed model takes into account the difference of passenger demand in different periods, and can get the optimal headway and delivery and reserve plan. In order to prove that the method can effectively minimize the cost, we solved a numerical example and compared the cost of the method in multi-transit model planning. Furthermore, the optimization results show that the total costs (TC) were reduced by 14.48%. Among them, the user costs (UC) decreased by 30.38% and the operator costs (OC) increased by 4.18%. Sensitivity analyses are presented to verify the validity of the model. The analysis results show that multi size bus optimization can reduce the total cost, especially the user cost in a certain cost weight interval. Besides this, the cost weight which reflects the passenger volume and waiting time value, optional bus size and cross-section passenger volume all affect vehicle scheme and system cost. Full article

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15 pages, 3293 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulation Study of Dynamic Bus Lane Concept

by Mateusz Szarata, Piotr Olszewski and Lesław Bichajło

Sustainability 2021, 13(3), 1302; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13031302 - 27 Jan 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3080

Abstract

Not many publications are available on using microsimulation models to analyze the feasibility of implementing the dynamic bus lane (DBL) concept. The paper presents the methodology and calibration process used for DBL modeling. For the selected four sites in Rzeszów (Poland), three options [...] Read more.

Not many publications are available on using microsimulation models to analyze the feasibility of implementing the dynamic bus lane (DBL) concept. The paper presents the methodology and calibration process used for DBL modeling. For the selected four sites in Rzeszów (Poland), three options were analyzed: no bus lane, standard exclusive bus lane (XBL), and dynamic bus lane. The analyses were carried out using PTV Vissim software with an additional logic script to control the DBL activation. Simulation model parameters were calibrated using a genetic algorithm. The final assessment of individual options was based on the weighted average travel time for all transport modes. The results show that the dynamic bus lane could bring the same benefits to public transport and cause only a slight increase in travel times in private transport compared to XBL. The XBL solution, depending on the site, led to increasing the average travel time in private transport by 12% to 25%, while the dynamic bus lane increased by 1% to 12%. Weighted average travel time per person is proposed as the overall indicator of efficiency. Preliminary analyses show that the bus volume, bus occupancy, routing, and traffic conditions will affect the efficiency of the new solution. Full article

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