Public Transport Research Articles

Enhancing linear switched reluctance motor performance through stator winding overhang leakage flux integration

High-speed rail transit systems are smoothly finding their way into the mainstream of public transport systems worldwide. The linear motors form an integral part of these transit systems. Thus, the search for an efficient and cost-effective linear motor is inevitable. Linear Switched Reluctance Motors (LSRMs) are gaining the attention of many researchers due to their inherent advantages over other popular linear motors. This paper focuses on enhancing the propulsion force of the motor by proposing some design adjustments to include the leakage flux from the stator winding overhang part. This is done by suggesting some structural changes in the translator of the motor. The impact of modifying the translator on propulsion and ripple reduction is studied using the FEM simulations. An LSRM structure with a split-teeth stator is used for this study. To comparatively analyse the proposed design the same LSRM is studied and analysed with three structural modifications in the translator. The detailed analysis results show the increase in propulsion force of the proposed LSRM by incorporating the leakage flux from the stator winding overhang with reduced force ripples, material weight and cost.

The spatiotemporal scaling laws of urban population dynamics

Human mobility is becoming increasingly complex in urban environments. However, our fundamental understanding of urban population dynamics, particularly the pulsating fluctuations occurring across different locations and timescales, remains limited. Here, we use mobile device data from large cities and regions worldwide combined with a detrended fractal analysis to uncover a universal spatiotemporal scaling law that governs urban population fluctuations. This law reveals the scale invariance of these fluctuations, spanning from city centers to peripheries over both time and space. Moreover, we show that at any given location, fluctuations obey a time-based scaling law characterized by a spatially decaying exponent, which quantifies their relationship with urban structure. These interconnected discoveries culminate in a robust allometric equation that links population dynamics with urban densities, providing a powerful framework for predicting and managing the complexities of urban human activities. Collectively, this study paves the way for more effective urban planning, transportation strategies, and policies grounded in population dynamics, thereby fostering the development of resilient and sustainable cities.

Socioeconomic disparities in mobility behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic in developing countries

Mobile phone data have played a key role in quantifying human mobility during the COVID-19 pandemic. Existing studies on mobility patterns have primarily focused on regional aggregates in high-income countries, obfuscating the accentuated impact of the pandemic on the most vulnerable populations. Leveraging geolocation data from mobile-phone users and population census for 6 middle-income countries across 3 continents between March and December 2020, we uncovered common disparities in the behavioral response to the pandemic across socioeconomic groups. Users living in low-wealth neighborhoods were less likely to respond by self-isolating, relocating to rural areas, or refraining from commuting to work. The gap in the behavioral responses between socioeconomic groups persisted during the entire observation period. Among users living in low-wealth neighborhoods, those who commute to work in high-wealth neighborhoods pre-pandemic were particularly at risk of experiencing economic stress, facing both the reduction in economic activity in the high-wealth neighborhood and being more likely to be affected by public transport closures due to their longer commute distances. While confinement policies were predominantly country-wide, these results suggest that, when data to identify vulnerable individuals are not readily available, GPS-based analytics could help design targeted place-based policies to aid the most vulnerable.

Integrating urban rail transit network reserve capacity analysis with rapid line planning within metropolitan area

ABSTRACT With the rapid development of metropolitan areas, urban rail transit networks (URTN) are facing increasing and evolving passenger demands. Enhancing the capacity of transportation networks has thus become a critical aspect of urban transportation planning. This study aims to optimize rail transit service networks by designing new rapid lines (NRL) that connect suburban areas with city centres, balancing the objectives of maximizing network reserve capacity and minimizing the generalized cost of passenger travel. To achieve this, a three-layer model integrating reserve capacity, line planning, and traffic assignment (RCP – LPP) is proposed, and a nested iterative algorithm based on Adaptive Large Neighborhood search (ALNS) is developed to solve it. Numerical simulations using the Chongqing rail transit network demonstrate the model’s necessity and effectiveness. This research offers valuable operational insights for service line planners and operators, contributing to the resilience and service quality of urban rail systems.

Understanding the factors that influence active travel frequency for walkable neighborhoods: insights from a metropolitan city in India

ABSTRACT Active travel, encompassing walking and cycling, is crucial for sustainable urban transportation, offering environmentally friendly commuting options. It benefits the Indian population by reducing air pollution, easing traffic congestion, improving accessibility, and promoting physical activity. This study focuses on informing active travel policymaking in India by examining how the built environment influences travel behavior. Using data from the 2013 activity-travel diary survey in the Greater Mumbai region, the study employs Poisson Regression and Cox proportional hazards models. These models analyze the impact of the built environment on the frequency and duration of daily walking and cycling trips on both weekdays and weekends. Poisson Regression is suitable for discrete count outcomes, while the Cox proportional hazards model assesses walking duration while considering data censoring. Analyzing these models helps policymakers understand the factors influencing walking and cycling duration and frequency. This understanding supports the design of targeted interventions that promote active commuting, increase walking and cycling, and enhance physical activity. The findings reveal that walkability, population density, socio-demographic characteristics, and vehicle ownership influence active travel behavior differently for various trip purposes. This underscores the need for tailored policies and interventions that address the specific requirements of different population segments, promoting active commuting and physical activity in low and middle-income countries like India. Implementing such measures facilitates a shift towards sustainable transportation and fosters healthier, more accessible urban environments.

Metropolitan Migratory Trends in the Post‐Pandemic Context. Analysis of the Madrid Region Based on Mobile Phone Network Data

ABSTRACTThis paper aims to enrich the current literature on the study of migratory movements in the context of COVID‐19 and the post‐pandemic period. While most of the studies on this topic measure migration using official registers, we propose a new methodology based on the leverage of mobile phone network data, taken from the Madrid region, as a case study. While the use of such data are common in other fields, such as transport and mobility planning, we demonstrate their usefulness in the study of migration. Analysing the case of Madrid, we find new evidence of the changes in migratory trends during COVID‐19, of increased immigration into rural and outer suburban areas and emigration from core urban areas. A geographical description of the new migration trends is provided on different scales (from the national to the metropolitan and municipal scale, including small urban transportation zones), and by socioeconomic group. In addition, we provide some ideas about these trends in the post‐pandemic context, as the evolution of migratory trends varies for different groups.

Assessing the relationship between space-time behaviours and personal noise exposure using isotemporal substitution models in the Grand Paris area.

The individual exposure to environmental noise in cities is usually assessed at the residential neighbourhood level with static, year-averaged strategic maps. This representation may underestimate noise exposure, given the mobility of individuals within the city and proximate sources of exposure. Our study employs high-resolution sensor analysis to observe how personal noise exposure differs from modelled noise map metrics, identify socioeconomical and behavioural determinants of exposure, and explore the impact of reallocating certain behaviours to others on daily personal noise exposure (LAeq,24h). Data on daily activities of 259 participants of the MobiliSense cohort living in the metropolitan area of Paris were collected between 2018 and 2020. Participants were equipped of a personal monitor for sound pressure, and of a GPS receiver and an accelerometer. Modes of transport were collected during a mobility survey. Results showed that noise exposure based on personal monitoring during space-time behaviours differed from modelled noise levels at residence. Participants were exposed to values below the recommended critical value for health of 55 dB(A) in urban areas in only 36% of the days. Individual socioeconomic characteristics and residential factors explained very little variance in personal noise exposure. Noise exposure varied among performed activities and transport modes, with public transport associated with the highest sound levels. While time spent in the underground public transport was on average 1.4% of the total daily time-budget, it contributes on average to 9.5% of the daily noise dose. This research reveals that individual mobility behaviours significantly influence daily noise exposure in urban environments. By analysing how people move throughout their day, we found that traditional static assessments, limited to residential noise, underestimate actual exposure. Notably, despite limited time spent in it (1,4%), underground transport contributed substantially to daily noise (9.5%). Furthermore, participants experienced noise levels below recommended health thresholds in only 36% of days. These findings underscore the need for policy changes that prioritize walkable cities and minimize commuting time, alongside the design of "quiet areas" within urban spaces for recovering from the city noise stress.

Characterization of the weight of backpacks and spinal alterations in schoolchildren

The weight of the backpack and the alterations of the spine of schoolchildren between the ages of 6 and 11, is a research carried out in Sabaneta Colombia, where students who use backpacks can experience postural changes that cause significant musculoskeletal damage. These effects are a public health problem, impacting the child population and requiring physiotherapeutic strategies and educational campaigns to mitigate the effects of the weight of backpacks. The American Physical Therapy Association recommends that the weight of the backpack does not exceed 10-15% of the child's body weight and according to this research, 18% show postural alterations, especially scoliosis. Some factors that affect the biomechanical structure are: the prolonged position, the load carried and the type of backpack influence postural alterations. It should be noted that 96% of students use vertically loaded daypacks, in this case, studies indicate that 36% of students report back pain. Saborit y Pitarch (cited in Linero, Et al., 2018), conclude that the traditional backpack hanging on its side is the most harmful. In Colombia, the lack of lockers and the use of public transportation exacerbate the problem. According to DANE, 90% of schoolchildren use backpacks. Excessive loading in backpacks can cause postural asymmetry and musculoskeletal pain, limiting daily activities and increasing school absenteeism. This is how education and prevention in biomechanics and posture are crucial.

Getting Public Transport Networked: It’s Not Just Complicated, It’s Complex

ABSTRACT This paper explores the complexity of implementing significant changes to public transport systems, particularly those changes designed to create systems that can complete with the private car. It does this by looking at a case of implementing Networked Public Transport from Bozhou, China. After four months of political decision making, Bozhou undertook to radically alter their public transport system, implementing what is known as “one road one line” public transport. The changes were implemented in a period of two months in the manner of fixing a machine. Transport experts developed the new system, realigning the established bus system by drawing lines on a map, and then implemented it under the direction of the government. Complications were dealt with, but little to no consideration was given to the multiple interconnections of parts which create complexity. Traditional governance failure to deal with this complexity caused a backlash from the public. The paper suggests that non-linear oriented governance with a creative and holistic approach to implementation inside the broader context, might support a successful implementation, as might an approach that directly deal with consumers’ psychological demands and behavioural changes. Further studies should be conducted to explore how people can manage such complex implementations.

Assessing Equitable Implementation of a Social Care Initiative Integrating Medical and Social Services for Medicaid Members.

To assess the equitable implementation of a case management program integrating medical and social services for Medicaid members. This qualitative study assessed the equitable implementation of a case management program in Contra Costa County, CA. Study participants were identified using purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in person or by phone. Primary data were collected between Fall 2019 and Spring 2021 and included 92 semi-structured interviews with patients (n = 31), case managers (n = 47), and county administrators (n = 14). Data were coded using an inductive-deductive framework analysis approach informed by the Health Equity Implementation Framework (HEIF). Characteristics of the innovation influencing equitable implementation included experienced public health nursing leadership and inclusion of social risk factors in a predictive algorithm determining patient program eligibility. Recipient factors included inequitable emotional demands of medical and social service integration work on case management teams from diverse racial/ethnic and training backgrounds, and patient experiences of mistreatment from medical and social service institutions. Clinical encounter factors highlighted the necessity for trust building between patients and case managers and the importance of multidisciplinary expertise to address patients' interconnected medical and social needs. Contextual factors described organizational readiness in the form of multidisciplinary teams with reduced hierarchical power imbalances, system-wide investments in a universal data infrastructure and data insights team, and strong intra- and inter-organizational partnerships. Societal factors included systemic discrimination and racism, insufficient affordable housing and public transit, pervasive administrative barriers in accessing health and social services, and federal funding for holistic approaches to integrated care. Case management programs aiming to equitably integrate social and medical services should invest in multidisciplinary case management teams, organizational readiness for equitable implementation via committed, experienced leadership, and interventions to address systemic factors hindering the engagement of historically marginalized groups.

Optimization of passenger flow control and parallel bus bridging in urban rail transit based on intelligent transport infrastructure

AbstractPassenger flow control and bus bridging are used widely in the operations and management of urban rail transit to relieve the pressure of urban rail transit passenger flow, especially in peak periods. This paper presents an optimization method based on time‐varying running time in links. We first develop a mixed integer nonlinear programming model seeking to achieve the minimum total passenger travel time and operation cost. An optimization network and an algorithm are then designed to solve the model. We use the developed method to solve both a small‐scale simulated case study and a real‐world case study involving the Chengdu Metro. The results obtained by the designed algorithm are comparable with those obtained by the CPLEX solver but with a shorter calculation time. The results show that parallel bus bridging can effectively reduce the number of waiting passengers. A sensitivity analysis of weight suggests that the algorithm successfully balances passenger travel cost and operating cost while incorporating time‐varying running times leads to more realistic and dynamic infrastructure planning. This work contributes to the development of intelligent urban rail and road infrastructure systems, promoting safer and more efficient public transport operations.

Coverage versus Frequency: Exploring Service Variability among Informal Public Transport Operators in South Africa

Coverage versus Frequency: Exploring Service Variability among Informal Public Transport Operators in South Africa

Does transit-oriented development (TOD) influence perceived safety and mode choice?

Transit-oriented development (TOD) is an established urban planning principle for increasing public transport (PT) use. However, whether TOD enhances perceived safety and increases PT use remains an open question. This study analyzes the link between mode choice, perceived safety, and TOD dimensions on a large dataset covering the Greater Copenhagen area in Denmark. Using survey data and site observations, we first estimate multiple linear regression models to show which TOD dimensions enhance individuals’ perceived safety at train stations. Then, using large-scale travel survey data encompassing 21,844 trips between 2009 and 2018, including various user socioeconomic variables, we estimate a mode choice model in which TOD score and perceived safety are used as explanatory variables. Our results provide empirical evidence showing that the safety dimension of TOD significantly increases perceived safety and that perceived safety at both the home and activity ends of the trip influences the likelihood of an individual choosing PT. Only a higher TOD score at the activity end significantly increases PT use, whereas park-and-ride lots at the activity end reduce it and make cycling less attractive at both trip ends. Distance to the nearest stations/stops and service headway have a significant influence on mode choice at both ends of the trip. These results indicate that dense urban development around stations supports PT use and cycling more strongly than allocating space to park-and-ride lots. Our results are important for policymakers seeking to use TOD guidelines to increase individuals’ perceived safety and PT use in cities.

Factors Affecting the Integration of Micromobility into Smart Cities and Effects on Urban Transport

In the transport of the future, the development of smart cities and the use of micromobility vehicles play an important role in terms of sustainability and efficiency. Micromobility vehicles such as electric scooters, bicycles and e-mopeds provide environmental, economic and social benefits by offering an important alternative in urban transport. However, many factors need to be considered for the successful integration of these vehicles. The aim of this paper is to analyse the main factors affecting the integration of micromobility vehicles into urban transport systems. In this paper, 9 sub-criteria under 6 main criteria affecting the integration of micromobility vehicles are considered and the relationships between these criteria are analysed by DEMATEL method. As a result of the analysis, the importance ranking of the criteria related to micromobility vehicles is determined as follows: roads reserved for micromobility vehicles, integration of micromobility vehicles with public transport, accidents, legislation deficiencies, lighting and signing, accessibility to micromobility vehicles, digital literacy level, effects of micromobility vehicles on environmental sustainability and fuel cost. The study makes an important contribution towards better understanding the impacts of micromobility vehicles on urban transport and identifying important factors to be considered in the integration process.

AI-Driven Location Analysis and Population Demand Forecasting for E-Bike Sharing in the BRT Peshawar Network

The implementation of BSS represents a key approach to enhance sustainable transportation patterns within cities. Public transportation stations at the end of travel routes can integrate BSS better to enhance both sustainable transportation alternatives and connectivity options. Research studies the potential benefits along with technological viability of linking BSS with Bus stations. A stated preference survey provides complete understanding of how people choose their travel modes. The survey allowed researchers to discover optimal sites and design framework for bicycle stations. The researcher used Geographic Information System (GIS) to choose suitable locations. Progress toward developing a BSS network requires consideration of three fundamental elements including population distribution pattern combined with land usage and transportation accessibility characteristics. The predicted results from this investigation will introduce better last-mile options. Academics exposed that BSS enhance accessibility through lowered traffic congestion alongside environmental improvements from reduced pollution levels alongside elevated physical exercise rates. The urban transport system achieves social equity through active promotion mechanisms. This study will focus on establishing the major obstacles that require solutions to enable smooth system unification. Relevant infrastructure along with amenities must be developed for this system to function properly. The delivery of services that cater to BSS users combined with security protection measures and access guarantees ensure infrastructure safety. The findings of this study demonstrate how this research establishes the success of the research provides essential knowledge about the sustainable development of Peshawar's urban transport network which benefits future policymakers and planners. Urban transportation planners together with public officials should use these findings when designing BSS system integration strategies.

The Role of AI and Public Transportation: A Study on Accessibility, Efficiency, and Satisfaction of Commuters

The Role of AI and Public Transportation: A Study on Accessibility, Efficiency, and Satisfaction of Commuters

Transmission of aerosols inside a moving auto rickshaw: a computational fluid dynamic study.

We report a 3D Euler-Lagrangian CFD model to quantify the dispersion and transport of aerosols in a moving, semi-open auto rickshaw. The vehicle has a driver at the front, with two passengers seated behind in the rear section. This mode of transport is commonly seen in developing countries across Asia and Africa. Aerosol particles are generated due to the continuous, unmasked speaking of a passenger inside the auto rickshaw. The Eulerian portion of the model has been validated against reported experimental data on flow fields in enclosures with and without obstacles. Three RANS-based turbulence models-standard k-ε, realizable k-ε, and SST k-ω-are compared with experimental data, and the standard k-ε model is found to be the most suitable. Since the sides of the auto rickshaw are open, there is significant air exchange with the surroundings, which greatly affects the spread of aerosol particles. The presence of a partition between the driver and the passenger compartment reduces the probability of infection transmission from 1 to 0. A decrease in the auto rickshaw's speed from 60 to 20km/h also reduces the probability of spread from 1 to 0. Additionally, a lateral wind (perpendicular or oblique to the direction of travel) further decreases the probability of transmission from 1 to 0. For all cases, the face velocity for all passengers is computed. The state of dispersion is significantly influenced by the location of aerosol generation. The relative importance of the different scenarios studied is quantified. Finally, a set of recommendations is outlined and compared with those reported for other modes of public transport.

Understanding the rural demographics need for electric vehicles

ABSTRACT UK Government legislation has outlined the transition from Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) to Electric Vehicles (EVs) with the most recent Ten-Point Plan detailing the ending of sales of ICE vehicles by 2030. With EVs already gaining popularity, this transition is already underway. However, past large socio-techno transitions often leave rural communities behind (e.g. Internet and mobile connectivity). Therefore, a key part of engaging with rural communities is to provide a smoother transition for these areas to EV usage. This paper examines the nuances, particularly of the EV transition in rural areas identified through a survey distributed to households within the Peak District, a large rural area of the UK. Households were invited to complete an online survey about their travel patterns, current vehicle usage, awareness, and acceptance levels of EVs, electricity tariffs and charging, and access to public transport. This paper presents the findings from this survey.

Research on Travel Happiness of Elderly People in Regular Public Transport

Research on Travel Happiness of Elderly People in Regular Public Transport

Navigating the E-Scooter Market in Türkiye: A Theory-Guided Qualitative Analysis

In recent years, rising traffic congestion, environmental concerns, and demand for sustainable transport have boosted the global popularity of micromobility vehicles. Electric scooters (e-scooters), introduced in Türkiye in 2019, have quickly spread across major cities. This study analyzes e-scooter use in Türkiye using Behrendt et al.'s even-dimensional framework, covering environment, human factors, social-cultural aspects, vehicle technology, infrastructure, economics, public health, and regulations. It explores Türkiye-specific dynamics, assessing challenges and opportunities. Key findings highlight infrastructure gaps, high operational costs, sustainability issues, user experience, and regulatory shortcomings. Participants’ insights underscore the need for innovative strategies to enhance the sector’s sustainability and effectiveness in urban mobility. The study offers tailored recommendations for Türkiye, contributing to global micromobility research. It provides policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers with suggestions to improve e-scooters’ environmental and social sustainability, supporting their integration into urban transport systems while addressing local needs and conditions.