A multiple perspective method for urban subway network robustness analysis

Shuliang Wang,Sen Nie,H Eugene Stanley,Longfeng Zhao

doi:10.1063/1.5023766

Shuliang Wang, Sen Nie + Show 2 more

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https://doi.org/10.1063/1.5023766

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Abstract

Most network research studying the robustness of critical infrastructure networks focuses on a particular aspect and does not take the entire system into consideration. We develop a general methodological framework for studying network robustness from multiple perspectives, i.e., Robustness assessment based on percolation theory, vulnerability analysis, and controllability analysis. Meanwhile, We use this approach to examine the Shanghai subway network in China. Specifically, (1) the topological properties of the subway network are quantitatively analyzed using network theory; (2) The phase transition process of the subway network under both random and deliberate attacks are acquired (3) Critical dense areas that are most likely to be the target of terrorist attacks are identified, vulnerability values of these critical areas are obtained; (4) The minimum number of driver nodes for controlling the whole network is calculated. Results show that the subway network exhibits characteristics similar to a scale-free network with low robustness to deliberate attacks. Meanwhile, we identify the critical area within which disruptions produce large performance losses. Our proposed method can be applied to other infrastructure networks and can help decision makers develop optimal protection strategies.

Highlights

Real-world networks are critical infrastructure systems (CISs) that function collaboratively and synergistically to produce essential services and facilitate human interaction.[1]
Using percolation theory to measure robustness allows us to determine a system’s ability to remain functional when its components are disrupted, and this approach can be applied to both random failure and targeted attack scenarios
The decrease under targeted disruption is much greater than under random failure, which means the Shanghai subway system is robust to random failure but vulnerable to targeted attack

Summary

Introduction

Real-world networks are critical infrastructure systems (CISs) that function collaboratively and synergistically to produce essential services and facilitate human interaction.[1]. They provide essential public transport services and play a key role in urban economic development. Urban subway networks have been greatly expanded in recent years, and medium-sized cities are building them, and even some small cities have plans for their construction. Large cities such as New York, Shanghai, and London continue to maintain and expand them, and the result is complex subway networks with high station densities and intricate interstation coupling.[2]

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