Sustainability

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19 pages, 4642 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Optimization Design of Hybrid Parking Lots in an Automated Environment

by Taolüe Chen and Chao Sun

Sustainability 2023, 15(21), 15475; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152115475 - 31 Oct 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1729

This paper explores the minimum lateral parking distance and parking acceleration/deceleration distance of vehicles to improve the efficiency of automated valet parking (AVP) lots and save urban land. Specifically, the paper focuses on designing parking lots for automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and their [...] Read more.

This paper explores the minimum lateral parking distance and parking acceleration/deceleration distance of vehicles to improve the efficiency of automated valet parking (AVP) lots and save urban land. Specifically, the paper focuses on designing parking lots for automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and their parking attributes. To ensure AGV accessibility and maximize AVP capacity, graph theories and unique path-driving methods are used in designing mobile priority parking lots and decision spaces. Additionally, the paper proposes an optimization design for parking lots with obstacles, considering the layout of load-bearing columns and charging resources for electric vehicles in underground parking lots. The article further proposes an optimization design for hybrid parking lots based on spatio-temporal resource conversion in traffic design and the principle of traffic separation in traffic control since hybrid parking lots that accommodate both conventional vehicles and AGVs are crucial to the future development of urban parking lots. The experimental results show that the proposed optimization design for urban parking lots in automated environments is superior to the traditional parking lots design in terms of capacity and density. This paper provides an optimal layout scheme of urban parking lots in multiple scenarios, which can improve the service level of urban static traffic systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Public Transport and Logistics Network Optimization)

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25 pages, 3689 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainability Oriented Vehicle Route Planning Based on Time-Dependent Arc Travel Durations

by Xianlong Ge and Yuanzhi Jin

Sustainability 2023, 15(4), 3208; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15043208 - 9 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1765

Abstract

Traffic congestion has become a growing concern in cities, with both economic and environmental impacts on both individuals and the logistics industry. Therefore, a model of freight distribution in urban areas considering economic and environmental objectives needs to be established to alleviate the [...] Read more.

Traffic congestion has become a growing concern in cities, with both economic and environmental impacts on both individuals and the logistics industry. Therefore, a model of freight distribution in urban areas considering economic and environmental objectives needs to be established to alleviate the consequences. In this paper, a multi-stage heuristic algorithm is designed for solving the route planning based on time-dependent arc travel durations. The algorithm includes a savings method, a modified tabu search heuristic and a cycle transforming optimization (CTO) algorithm. Benchmark instances and the case of Jingdong, one of the largest e-commerce platforms in China, have been adopted to verify the accuracy and feasibility of the model and algorithm. Results of the performance test reveal that the designed algorithm is suitable for addressing large-scale instances. Based on the single objective models, two objectives referring to economical-related and environmental-related factors are considered in the proposed sustainability oriented bi-objective model, and a modified solution framework using a multi-objective decision making method with a relaxation coefficient which is designed for addressing the bi-objective model. Finally, the time-dependent arc travel durations based on real-time traffic information have been incorporated into the optimization algorithms, simulation of distribution process and dynamic route updating strategy, which can reduce costs and route-associated emissions of logistics companies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Public Transport and Logistics Network Optimization)

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17 pages, 5952 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cost–Benefit Analysis of Unconventional Arterial Intersection Designs: Cairo as a Case Study

by Sherif Shokry, Shinji Tanaka and Amr M. Wahaballa

Sustainability 2022, 14(24), 17016; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142417016 - 19 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1637

Abstract

Due to their innovative treatment, Unconventional Arterial Intersection Designs (UAIDs) have been developed to alleviate congestion at conventional signalized intersections, in an effort towards the sustainable development of crowded capitals. A methodological framework for economic assessment, however, has not been investigated properly for [...] Read more.

Due to their innovative treatment, Unconventional Arterial Intersection Designs (UAIDs) have been developed to alleviate congestion at conventional signalized intersections, in an effort towards the sustainable development of crowded capitals. A methodological framework for economic assessment, however, has not been investigated properly for such designs, particularly under mixed traffic environments. This article aims to outline a methodological framework that can be followed for the socio-economic assessment of such designs. A cost–benefit analysis approach was developed to figure out the different determinants of costs and benefits of an overpass interchange (as a widespread treatment) and two selected UAIDs (as alternative measures). The two studied UAID schemes in this article are Continuous Flow Intersection (CFI) and Restricted Crossing U-Turn (RCUT). Seeking credible results, a set of three signalized intersections in downtown Cairo, Egypt was selected as a proof-of-concept for the developed method. PTV-VISSIM, a simulation-based platform, was utilized to estimate the benefits gained by road users. Our research objectives were to identify, evaluate, and compare the economic feasibility of the different alternatives. Compared to the overpass intersection, we found that the CFI and RCUT designs ensure higher economic efficiency, while mitigating congestion at conventional signalized intersections under heterogeneous traffic conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Public Transport and Logistics Network Optimization)

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13 pages, 2690 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Motorway Impact on Agricultural Land with a Simplified Method and GIS Data as a Tool for Selecting the Optimal Route

by Stanisław Bacior, Krzysztof Chmielowski and Barbara Prus

Sustainability 2022, 14(24), 16410; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142416410 - 8 Dec 2022

Viewed by 1523

Abstract

The highway network has to grow because of the increasing vehicle use, the effort to improve road safety, and the needs generated by economic development and efficient international transport. The negative impact of the motorway on agricultural holdings in its vicinity can be [...] Read more.

The highway network has to grow because of the increasing vehicle use, the effort to improve road safety, and the needs generated by economic development and efficient international transport. The negative impact of the motorway on agricultural holdings in its vicinity can be determined with general agricultural land valuation methods. However, this approach necessitates an in-depth analysis of land cultivated by each farm, which is rather labour-intensive. Impact on agricultural land should be assessed after the detailed plans for constructing a motorway are ready or even after construction. Nevertheless, simplified methods can be applied as early as the preliminary design stage or when evaluating potential alternative routes. Less labour-intensive, these methods can determine the harmful impact of a motorway on agricultural land with sufficient accuracy. The simplified and automated method presented for assessing the impact of a motorway on agricultural land uses GML files to automatically acquire data for the calculations, using the linear nature of the motorway. The prepared input data is then processed to optimally place the motorway in space. The final step is the visualisation of the road investment. The process has been automated to facilitate rapid analysis and employment of the data in linear project modelling and assessments of available options. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Public Transport and Logistics Network Optimization)

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19 pages, 1262 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analyzing the Effect of Crowds on Passenger Behavior Inside Urban Trains through Laboratory Experiments—A Pilot Study

by Sebastian Seriani, Jose Miguel Barriga, Alvaro Peña, Alejandra Valencia, Vicente Aprigliano, Lorena Jorquera, Hernan Pinto, Matías Valenzuela and Taku Fujiyama

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 14882; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142214882 - 10 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1662

Abstract

The objective is to study the distribution of passengers inside urban trains for different levels of crowding. The study is carried out through the observation of videos made by laboratory experiments in which a mock-up of a carriage represented the boarding and alighting [...] Read more.

The objective is to study the distribution of passengers inside urban trains for different levels of crowding. The study is carried out through the observation of videos made by laboratory experiments in which a mock-up of a carriage represented the boarding and alighting process. The Fruin’s Level of Service (LOS) was adopted, but with a different approach, in which the train is divided into five zones (central hall, central aisle, side aisle, central seats and side seats). The experiments are based on the behavior of passengers in the London Underground; however, this study could be expanded to any conventional rail or LRT system. For the laboratory experiments, it is proposed to build a metro carriage and a corresponding platform section, and the scenarios will include different levels of crowding of passengers boarding and alighting to produce a variation in the density on the platform. According to the crowding level, the results allow obtaining the distribution and movements generated by passengers in the five zones for different instants of time during the process of boarding and alighting. It is observed that passengers are distributed according to safety and efficiency conditions. For example, passengers tried to avoid contact with each other unless it is inevitable. In relation to comfort, the seats of the carriage are always used even if there is a low level of crowding. If the crowding level increases, the boarding and alighting time go up. In addition, passengers will spend one or two seconds more if the “let’s get off before getting on the carriage” behavior is breached. This kind of experiment can be used in further research as a way to test “what-if” scenarios using this new method of discretization of the space inside the train, which cannot be tested in existing stations due to restrictions such as the weather, variability of the train frequency, current design of the trains, among others. New experiments are necessary for future research to include other types of passengers such as people with disabilities or reduced mobility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Public Transport and Logistics Network Optimization)

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13 pages, 1847 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of Ramp Locations along Freeways: A Dynamic Programming Approach

by Dawei Chen, Fangxu Mo, Ye Chen, Jun Zhang and Xinyu You

Sustainability 2022, 14(15), 9718; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14159718 - 7 Aug 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1760

Abstract

Ramps provide entrances and exits for residents to conveniently use the freeway service. Due to the high construction cost and geometric design requirements, the decision of ramp locations involves a trade-off between multiple influencing factors, such as accessibility, safety, efficiency, construction costs, etc. [...] Read more.

Ramps provide entrances and exits for residents to conveniently use the freeway service. Due to the high construction cost and geometric design requirements, the decision of ramp locations involves a trade-off between multiple influencing factors, such as accessibility, safety, efficiency, construction costs, etc. This study proposed a methodology for optimizing freeway ramp placement in an effort to improve freeway accessibility. The freeway ramp locating problem was formulated as a bi-objective optimization model. Two objectives were pertinent to the reduction of total social costs: the minimization of total travel cost and minimization of total construction cost. To reflect the safety concern of ramp locations, the frequency of lane changes around the ramps and the minimum spacing between ramps were constrained. We developed an exact solution method based upon dynamic programming to solve the proposed model. Finally, a case study of the Beijing–Hong Kong–Macau Expressway within Henan Province, China, was conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed model and solution method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Public Transport and Logistics Network Optimization)

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19 pages, 2300 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Integrated Method for Locating Logistic Centers in a Rural Area

by Qianli Zhang and Haijun Mao

Sustainability 2022, 14(9), 5563; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14095563 - 5 May 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2606

Abstract

Transport has long been considered a concern for rural residents around the world. Rural express logistics, one of the transport topics, is associated with rural residents’ convenience as well as e-commerce development. As key nodes in the network, logistic centers need to be [...] Read more.

Transport has long been considered a concern for rural residents around the world. Rural express logistics, one of the transport topics, is associated with rural residents’ convenience as well as e-commerce development. As key nodes in the network, logistic centers need to be properly located to improve the delivery efficiency. This paper provides an integrated method for locating logistic centers which is of strong feasibility: on one hand, the proposed method seeks to maximize coverage of express service; on the other hand, considerations are given to operational profitability of the centers, ensuring overall viability for the plan. Specifically, the Holt–Winters model is used for demand prediction. Total predicted demand is then allocated to each town according to population, gross regional product, and some other indicators. A maximal covering model is applied to select logistic centers based on demand under different service radius and numbers of logistic centers. Revenue evaluation is then conducted for the selected logistic centers to evaluate their future operating conditions. The proposed method is applied in rural areas in Lhasa, China. Numerical analysis suggested that 12 of the selected 22 logistic centers could make a profit by 2025. Finally, policy recommendations are given for the development of rural logistic systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Public Transport and Logistics Network Optimization)

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17 pages, 1570 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analyzing Safety Concerns of (e-) Bikes and Cycling Behaviors at Intersections in Urban Area

by Jian Wang, Ye Chen and Dawei Chen

Sustainability 2022, 14(7), 4231; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14074231 - 2 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2466

Abstract

Extensive effort has been devoted to examining the causal relationship between contributing factors and injury severities. Given the important role of riders’ behaviors in traffic conflicts, this paper aims to analyze the causal effects of traffic conflicts resulting from riders’ behaviors at intersections. [...] Read more.

Extensive effort has been devoted to examining the causal relationship between contributing factors and injury severities. Given the important role of riders’ behaviors in traffic conflicts, this paper aims to analyze the causal effects of traffic conflicts resulting from riders’ behaviors at intersections. The authors collected video data on 152 traffic conflicts caused by riders’ dangerous behaviors in Jiangning District, China. This paper proposes a Bayesian-structural equation modeling (BSEM) approach. Based on the obtained BSEM path coefficient diagram, the factor loadings and path coefficients are analyzed to unveil the potential influence of factors, including personal features, dangerous behavior tendency, temporal and spatial characteristics of dangerous behavior, and the external environment. The results show that compared to human factors, environmental factors have a less direct impact on the severity of traffic conflicts; instead, they have an indirect positive impact on traffic conflicts by affecting behaviors. That is, if riders judge that road conditions are not suitable to conduct dangerous behaviors, they become more cautious in view of current road conditions and time revenue. Furthermore, dangerous cycling behaviors that continue to encroach on the time and space of motorized vehicles are prone to be more dangerous. The dangerous behaviors that continuously encroach on the time and space of motor vehicles (e.g., disobeying traffic signals and riding in a motorway) are significant predictors of serious conflicts. Considering the heterogeneity of riding behavior, these findings could be applied to develop effective education and intervention programs for preventing riders’ high-risk behaviors and improving the traffic environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Public Transport and Logistics Network Optimization)

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