Multimodal Traveler Research Articles

Assessing the Factors Impacting Transport Usage of Mobility App Users in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, India

Smartphone-based mobility apps have created a smartphone-enabled ecosystem of mobility services in developed countries and are slowly picking up pace in the Global South. Against this backdrop, this study used Latent Class Cluster Analysis to empirically investigate the impacts of mobility apps on transport usage patterns in Delhi by classifying users into three latent clusters based on socioeconomic characteristics, smartphone app usage, attitudes, and transport usage. Cluster 1 consisted of users with low app usage, and higher usage of public transport and intermediate public transport; Cluster 2 consisted of multimodal users with high app usage; and Cluster 3 consisted of users with moderate app usage and heavy reliance on private vehicles. Furthermore, the detailed characteristics of each latent class and factors affecting the individual’s probability of being classified into these clusters are discussed. It was found that younger users with higher education, more smartphone experience, medium-to-high household income and lower vehicle ownership had a very high probability of being classified as a multimodal traveler. Furthermore, the attitudes and preferences of users belonging to these clusters towards their choice of transport are discussed, along with a brief policy discussion for encouraging new app-based mobility services such as MaaS.

The role of coordination costs in mode choice decisions: A case study of German cities

Abstract In times of accelerating urbanization and environmental pollution, mode choice decisions (MCD) are a critical parameter in a city’s appearance and its environmental impacts. Simultaneously, the emerging smartphone multimodal traveller information systems (SMTIS) simplifies the usage of multimodal trips and, therefore, enhance the options in MCD. Current MCD models, in addition to considering classic parameters like travel time and cost, also consider socioeconomic variables and latent variables, such as modal preferences or mode-specific characteristics. However, from the users’ perspective, one main influence is currently still not sufficiently considered in these models: Coordination costs for planning the trip, such as looking-up time tables for public transport. Consequently, we introduced this variable in a multinomial logit model and made a representative survey in Germany for measuring the coordination effort and evaluating our model. Our results support our hypothesis that coordination costs have a significant impact on MCD. We therefore conclude that further developments in information systems together with supporting policies may influence the MCD and, hence, lead to more sustainable cities in the future.

Multimodal Traveller Information System using both Web-Based Design Program and Traffic Analysis for Akure Metropolis

A Traveller’s Information System integrated with traffic condition which can provide vital information to the users of the system is such a powerful tool in transportation planning. In this study, web-based multimodal advanced traveller information system was developed, which supplies information to trip makers within Akure metropolis and major cities with similar traffic condition. Traffic count was also taken on five roads which most of the transportation company’s vehicle ply so as to check for the traffic condition of the roads. The system provide information such as the available route from the origin of the traveller to his or her destination, the travel time, distance of each route, closest facilities like hotels, hospitals, airline services, airport terminal, departure time, departure time, arrival time and fare. The traffic count carried out revealed that Oyemekun road has the highest volume of traffic followed by Akure-Ado road while FUTA North gate road gives the least volume of traffic. The reason for the highest volume of traffic recorded at Oyemekun road is as a result of it location close to the CBD (Central Business District) while the lowest volume of traffic recorded for FUTA North gate is as a result of it location almost at the outskirt of the town. The web-based multi-modal traveller’s information system developed will help trip makers in Akure metropolis minimize the cost of their trips, by reducing travel time, energy consumption, and transport fare. Travellers are advised to embark on their journey earlier than the peak periods so as to avoid delay.

A Multimodal Traveller Information System using both Web-Based Design Program and Traffic Analysis for Akure Metropolis

A Traveller’s Information System integrated with traffic condition which can provide vital information to the users of the system is such a powerful tool in transportation planning. In this study, web-based multimodal advanced traveller information system was developed, which supplies information to trip makers within Akure metropolis and major cities with similar traffic condition. Traffic count was also taken on five roads which most of the transportation company’s vehicle ply so as to check for the traffic condition of the roads. The system provide information such as the available route from the origin of the traveller to his or her destination, the travel time, distance of each route, closest facilities like hotels, hospitals, airline services, airport terminal, departure time, departure time, arrival time and fare. The traffic count carried out revealed that Oyemekun road has the highest volume of traffic followed by Akure-Ado road while FUTA North gate road gives the least volume of traffic. The reason for the highest volume of traffic recorded at Oyemekun road is as a result of it location close to the CBD (Central Business District) while the lowest volume of traffic recorded for FUTA North gate is as a result of it location almost at the outskirt of the town. The web-based multi-modal traveller’s information system developed will help trip makers in Akure metropolis minimize the cost of their trips, by reducing travel time, energy consumption, and transport fare. Travellers are advised to embark on their journey earlier than the peak periods so as to avoid delay.

Graph Database Schema for Multimodal Transportation in Semarang

Background: Semarang has broad area that cannot be covered entirely by single transportation mode. To reach a specific location, people often use more than one public transportation mode. Apart from Bus Rapid Transit, another exist namely angkot or city transportation. Multimodal traveler information is then required to help passenger searching for a route. Several studies of multimodal traveler information system has been conducted, however the data model for multimodal transportation did not conceived in detail.Objective: Proposes a database of multimodal transportation design using graph data model by taking Semarang as a case study.Method: We create our model in oriented entity-relationship diagram (O-ERD) and map this O-ERD to the graph database schema.Result: We develop our data model in graph database schema and we implement the model using Neo4J graph database for validation purpose. Our model consist of three graph node label namely Shelter, Angkot Stopper, and Closer Place. To validate our model, we execute a search query using the Cypher query to look for location with closer place to it.Conclusion: Our data model was successfully developed and implemented. Searching transportation route in the implementation of our model has been conducted using cypher query. It can successfully display all possible paths and routes. Our query can distinguish between one mode of transportation with another.Keywords: Graph database, Multimodal transportation, Neo4j, Cypher

Will commute drivers switch to park-and-ride under the influence of multimodal traveler information? A stated preference investigation

The knowledge about en-trip mode switching behavior with presence of multimodal traveler information is very limited so far. This study investigated the impacts on commute drivers’ en-trip mode switch decisions of smartphone multimodal traveler information systems (SMTIS) which integrate dynamic information of auto-drive and subway park-and-ride (P&R). This is based on data collected from a stated preference survey in Shanghai, China. A panel mixed probit model which accounts for potential correlations of observations among a same driver and heterogeneity in preferences for travel time savings and comfort level of subway car was developed. The panel model has a much better goodness of fit than a model without consideration of panel effect and heterogeneity. The results show that SMTIS have significant impacts on commuter drivers’ decision about switching from auto drive to P&R; the impacts depend on personal attributes including gender, age, education level, income, and P&R use experience; the sensitivity to time savings in the case non-incident induced delays, and the sensitivity to comfort level of subway, both vary significantly among the driver sample.

Greenhouse gas impacts of different modality style classes using latent class travel behavior model

This study analyzed the interconnections between urban structure and socioeconomic, demographic and lifestyle variables and direct ground transport greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the Helsinki metropolitan region in Finland by using a latent class choice model (LCCM). The aim of the study was to identify and improve our understanding of the latent modality styles which guide people's everyday travel choices, and the resulting GHG implications. The GHG implications for different modality style groups are particularly interesting, since such analysis has not been included in previous studies. This study used the transport survey of the Helsinki Region Transport (HSL) from 2012, including over 17,000 trips, and consisted of two parts: first, the population was divided into classes based on latent class analysis, and secondly, the mode choices and GHG emissions were modelled for each class. Seven modality style groups were defined with strongly varying GHG impacts and travel profiles. According to the class specific choice modelling the probabilities of selecting different modes also varied significantly. The study offers new information for designing effective mitigation policies for different types of modality style groups. For example, car-oriented groups would benefit from more fuel-efficient vehicles and vehicles with alternative power sources, whereas the multimodal traveler could be more receptive to policies promoting cycling and public transport. Overall, the study depicts the potential of the latent class method to study the emissions caused by heterogeneous populations and to search for efficient GHG mitigation possibilities.

Impact of traveller information on mode choice behaviour

This paper analysed automobile commuters' mode choice behaviour under the influence of simulated multimodal traveller information by developing two logit models. A combined revealed preference (RP)/stated preference (SP) travel behaviour survey was administered to drivers to gather individual commuters' travel decisions under integrated multimodal traveller information. Two SP scenarios were designed where the first scenario is to test the mode choice preference in a basic situation involving a congested work/school trip with information on several travel options, and the second scenario is to investigate the mode choice decision when certain incentives are given for public transport. Results showed that integrated multimodal traveller information can influence a traveller's mode choice decision. The influencing factors that significantly affect the mode choice decision include socio-economic characteristics – for example, gender, age, level of education and level of income – and multimodal traveller information attributes – for example, access mode to mass rapid transit (MRT) station, access time to MRT station and transit seat availability. The findings are useful to traffic management agencies for designing better operational policy and information publication strategies.

Impact of Integrated Multimodal Traveler Information on Auto Commuter’s Mode Switching Propensity

Aim: Real-time traveler information affects auto commuter’s travel behavior. Method: An ordered probit model is used to analyze auto commuter’s mode switching propensity under influence of simulated real-time multimodal traveler information. A travel preference survey is administered to car drivers to gather individual commuter’s travel decisions under integrated multimodal traveler information. Result: It is shown that integrated multimodal traveler information can influence willingness of car drivers to switch mode of travel, while socio-economic characteristics also influence the mode choice decision.

Discourses, Travel Behaviour and the 'Last Mile' in London

The concept of 'sustainable travel' has been well discussed for over three decades; yet the meaning of sustainability in travel remains interpreted in many different ways. A transition to more environmentally sustainable travel has proved difficult to achieve, particularly in suburban areas. For individuals in society there are many different aspirations for, and constraints on, travelling in an environmentally sustainable manner. Lack of modal choice, route options, the cost of using public transport, and wider cultural norms are a few of the barriers to realizing a more sustainable transport network. Compounding this is the 'last mile' problem, concerning the facilities linking the main mode to the home, workplace or wider destination, which are often poor. This paper explores both the perceptions and opinions of everyday commuters in Ealing, London, including consideration of their localized lastmile issues. An in-depth study is undertaken with thirty-five employees of Ealing Council, using Q methodology to investigate the participants' perceptions towards, and awareness of, their respective journeys. The Q method analysis undertaken highlighted four major discourses associated with travel and the last mile problem in Ealing: 'the public transport user', 'the committed cyclist', 'the multi-modal traveller' and 'the frustrated traveller'. Understanding these different discourses and their unique characteristics has significant potential for assisting policy-makers and planners in developing more targeted investment priorities, policies, and stakeholder engagement strategies.

Calibration of a rule-based intelligent network simulation model

This paper is focused on calibration of an intelligent network simulation model (INSIM) with real-life transportation network to analyse the INSIM’s feasibility in simulating commuters’ travel choice behaviour under the influence of real-time integrated multimodal traveller information (IMTI). A transportation network model for the central and western areas of Singapore was simulated in PARAMICS and integrated with INSIM expert system by means of an application programming interface to form the INSIM. Upon calibration, INSIM was able to realistically present complicated scenarios in which real-time IMTI was provided to commuters and the network performance measures being recorded.

Dynamic Interactions between Commuters’ Mode Choice Behaviour and Integrated Traveller Information

A commuter’s mode choice decision in response to provided traveller information is directly dependent on the temporal and spatial interactions between the available travel modes, the network performance and control schemes, and the supplied traveller information. A self-developed simulation model – Intelligent Network Simulation Model (INSIM) – was employed to simulate travel scenarios in a multimodal transportation network. A set of experiments was designed to analyse and evaluate the influence of traffic information on commuter’s mode choice, using a medium-sized area in Singapore. Simulation results showed that the private-to-public mode switch propensity bears a strong and direct relation with amount of disseminated integrated multimodal traveller information (IMTI) as well as timeliness of information update. Other influential factors include degrees of accessibility and compliance to IMTI, and congestion-related events such as accidents.

Rule-Based Mode Choice Model: INSIM Expert System

This paper presents an innovative rule-based intelligent network simulation model (INSIM) expert system (IES) which simulates real-time mode choice decision-making process of commuters in the presence of multimodal traveler information. The IES captures interactions among available modes and decides on the commuter’s mode based on a commuter’s socioeconomic traits and prevailing travel condition. The commuter’s mode choice behavior is modeled and represented by cognitive rules in the rule-base of the IES. Two important characteristics of the IES, the reliability and the adaptive learning, are highlighted. Three different models, i.e., (1) pure rule-based model (PRB), (2) discrete choice model (DCM), and (3) probabilistic model (COM) are introduced to formulate the mode choice decisions. Simulation results show that the highest level of accuracy can be achieved by applying the PRB model to generate mode choice decisions.

Designing next generation multimodal traveler information systems to support sustainability-oriented decisions

This article explores functionality that could be included in the next generation multimodal travel information system to support sustainability-oriented decisions. It identifies situations in the journey's three phases, pre-, on- and post-trip that have the potential to change travel patterns and also transport choices that the individual makes in order to perform activities in their daily life. Requirements on a traveler information system were derived from these situations and choices. The identified requirements are then transferred into functionalities in a travel information system that has potentials to encourage decisions that could lead to lower energy usage. Nine traveler information systems for multimodal and public transport travel are systematically investigated to find out if they include the proposed functionality. The investigated systems are in operation primarily in Sweden, Germany, the UK and one has global coverage. The investigation results in a discussion about future opportunities with proposal to encourage sustainability oriented travel decisions in the next generation travel information system.

Transdisciplinary Research on Mobility Behaviour: Assessing the Potential of a Multimodal Traveller Information System in the Vienna Region

Transdisciplinary Research on Mobility Behaviour: Assessing the Potential of a Multimodal Traveller Information System in the Vienna Region

Traveler Information Tool with Integrated Real-Time Transit Information and Multimodal Trip Planning

The chief objective of the PATH2Go multimodal traveler information application is to improve the accessibility and the quality of real-time traveler information and to make transit a known and viable choice for travelers. PATH2Go was developed as part of a field test on the US-101 corridor in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, with the primary hypothesis that travelers would benefit from real-time multimodal traveler information and therefore would be likely to consider using transit. PATH2Go integrates a web-based multimodal trip-planning tool that uses real-time transit, traffic, and parking information; a web-based search tool that finds real-time information about transit arrivals and schedules; and a mobile application that provides personalized en route transit trip information. PATH2Go integrates these major components of traveler information in one platform and makes real-time information easily accessible to travelers. The PATH2Go system architecture and major design considerations are described, and enabling technologies–including the Global Positioning System (GPS) fusing algorithm and a scenario-parsing algorithm based on GPS location data–are introduced.

Multimodal Accessibility of Modern Roundabouts

Modern roundabouts have become popular in North America during the past decade. This popularity can be attributed to their great success in Europe and Australia. There has been significant debate, however, over their accessibility for pedestrians. With almost uninterrupted traffic flows, roundabouts make it difficult for the visually impaired to determine safe gaps, as they rely on auditory cues alone. Such crossing is particularly complicated by ambient noises and circulating vehicles on busy urban roundabouts. Various pedestrian signals have been installed at roundabouts overseas. The United States Access Board published a draft guideline proposing pedestrian signals at all roundabout crossings to ensure access for the visually impaired. Roundabout operations can be a complex process of transporting multimodal travelers. There is increased interest in harnessing artificial intelligence to address issues to improve transportation systems. This research developed a crosswalk signal and introduced fuzzy logic control (FLC) into the signal timing to accommodate roundabout users. The system was assessed against the Pedestrian User-Friendly Intelligent (PUFFIN) crossings under varied geometries under different traffic conditions. The objective was to identify potential treatments for improving roundabout accessibility, safety, and efficiency. The results reveal that “distant” layout reduces vehicle delays and queue lengths when the FLC signal is applied, especially under saturated traffic conditions. From safety and operational perspectives, the FLC signal outperforms PUFFIN. The FLC signal implements the signal timing effectively, decreases pedestrian delay, and maintains adequate vehicle circulation. Multimodal traveler needs at a modern roundabout are satisfied in manifold ways.

The value of integrated multimodal traveller information and its potential contribution to modal change

This paper reports on research that introduced the concept of integrated multimodal traveller information to mixed mode and mixed socio-demographic groups of travellers. Travellers were shown information about travel by car, coach and train for a journey with which they were familiar. Different levels of information were shown at different times, ranging from simple financial cost and journey duration information to information incorporating comfort and convenience factors. The research illustrates that the majority of travellers do not consider their modal choice for the majority of journeys. Rather, this choice is automatic and habitual, based upon subconscious perceptions of the viability and desirability of travel by modes other than the dominant mode. Thus, information about alternative modes is rarely consulted and travellers can be unaware of viable modal alternatives for their journeys. Results suggest that presentation of a number of modal options for a journey in response to a single enquiry could challenge previous perceptions of the utility of non-car modes, overcoming habitual and psychological barriers to consideration of alternative modes. Where the information presented incorporates comfort and convenience factors, in addition to cost and duration, it may challenge travellers’ concerns about alternative modes and could persuade a modal change.

The UK public transport industry and provision of multi-modal traveller information

Abstract In recent years significant developments in transport policy have taken place in the UK. Public transport is considered key to the policy objectives of achieving an integrated and sustainable transport system. Improvements to public transport operations alone will not necessarily persuade people to forego the use of their cars and make use of public transport modes. Intending travellers need to be informed of what is available. Substantial activity, promoted by Government, is now taking place in the UK concerning traveller information systems developments. However, such improvements and developments are taking place in a difficult environment. The UK has gone further than any other European country in transferring its public transport services into private management operating under market forces. This paper provides an outline of the current form of the public transport industry (with a focus on bus and rail services) looking at the complex responsibilities and relationships which this entails. It then addresses the main national initiatives for integrated traveller information provision before setting out the issues facing decision makers and service providers in the light of public needs and consumer understanding.

Institutional Issues in Traveler Information Dissemination: Lessons Learned from the TravInfo Field Operational Test

TravInfo is a multimodal traveler information system covering the San Francisco Bay Area. The system was intended to “collect and integrate available real-time data on all modes of surface transportation and...broadly disseminate the data through an open system designed to meet the needs of Advanced Traveler Information System (ATIS) firms” (Bay Area Ad Hoc IVHS Committee, 1992). This paper documents the institutional evaluation of TravInfo, covering the period from 1992 to 1997. It is based on interviews with key project members (three-waves), review of all meeting minutes, and first-hand observation of the organization throughout the period. TravInfo's primary successes have come in developing a network of public and private professionals, who have collaborated on ITS projects in a variety of venues. Unfortunately, however, TravInfo has not accomplished most of its initial objectives, largely due to a variety of institutional problems. Though some of the problems might be attributed to bad luck. the majority may simply be endemic to the concept. That is, by developing a public/private partnership whose primary purpose is to integrate and centralize traveler information, major institutional problems are bound to occur.