Dynamic Path Optimization in Sharing Mode to Relieve Urban Traffic Congestion

Abstract

In recent years, a new mode of transportation, referred to as “shared commuter buses,” has been introduced, which can considerably reduce the dependence of office workers on private cars and relieve urban traffic congestion, but is not widely used owing to efficiency issues. Improving the efficiency of shared commuter buses was set as a goal, and in this study, several research objects were selected to optimize the driving routes of shared commuter buses. The problem of stop location is combined with dynamic route optimization; the “shortest walking distance” model is established to select the most appropriate location for stops. The vehicle routing problem model and “key point updating strategy” are employed to plan routes with real-time traffic information. Finally, we conduct an empirical study to validate our conclusions. The results show that both the model and algorithm are reliable and effective; thus, travel efficiency can be effectively improved and traffic jams can be alleviated.