A User-Centred Approach to Design Transport Interchange Hubs (TIH): A Discussion Illustrated by a Case Study in the Russian Arctic

Abstract

This paper proposes a user-centred approach to design Transport Interchange Hubs (TIH). It is based on a literature review of existing information related to TIHs outside the domain of transport engineering, so the focus is on the building and the usage of it by its main customers: the travellers. A literature review is used to extract high level information on travellers' needs, technical and functional requirements of TIHs, constraints and design parameters. A product development approach is used to classify and combine this data so a proper set of design specifications to better address users' needs is proposed. A case study in the Russian Arctic is presented to illustrate the discussion due to the complexity of needs, requirements and parameters involved in designing TIHs in extreme climates. A proof of concept, using Axiomatic Design, to develop design specifications and manage constraints is applied and discussed considering how different types of simulation tools, essential to assess performance of complex buildings, can be integrated to the design process. Robust specifications, despite being part of parametric design methods, are underexplored in the architecture design domain. This work intends to provide a contribution to the body of knowledge in this area opening avenues for further research in how to define common design targets and objectives for different stakeholders as well as to manage the collaborative work of consultants involved in designing complex buildings.

Exploring Specific Features of Transport Interchange Hubs (TIH) Design, Taking into Account the Climatic Conditions of the Russian Arctic

“…This paper aimed to explore specific requirements and related features of TIH design in the AZRF. Fitting within a design method developed in another paper [1] by the same authors, it explored in more detail the use of green spaces as an extra-attraction on compensating for waiting time as well as methods to simulate human flow within terminals to improve travelers' comfort and speed, thus aiding in reducing total travelling time. It also discussed the complexities involved in the adoption of a multi-level schematic layout which on the one hand increases building compactness but on the other hand affects flow density and increases the complexity of design assessment.…”

“…In the paper [1] also submitted to this conference, the authors proposed a framework to address travellers' needs in the design of TIH using the Axiomatic Design (AD) method [15]. In this method, travellers' needs are translated into TIH functional requirements and subsequently into design parameters, to structure the development of a set of design specifications which can be used to more holistically take into account the integration of passenger flows and leisure opportunities provided to compensate for waiting times within TIH.…”

“…However, 'soft' design parameters such as those listed in table 1 should be used for specific tasks such as to configure key connections within terminal spaces as well as the links between terminals and the city. Connections are central in the design of TIH buildings and can be initially analysed in terms of hybrid origin-destination / space representations as proposed in [1]. However, connections should be designed not only according to transport safety and efficiency but also with regards to enabling cognitive ease during spatial navigation, effortless movement and environmental comfort, which can be seen as a holistic requirement including adequate temperatures up to a pleasant journey [25].…”

“…This paper uses the methodology proposed by another paper submitted to this conference [1], to analyse in more detail passengers' movement within terminals as well as potential ways to explore design opportunities that would enhance the quality of passengers' waiting time. Movement is discussed in terms of how passengers' flow is currently simulated in the design of TIH in the AZRF [14] in contrast with how it could potentially be enhanced by borrowing some complementary analysis methods from Western Europe and Japan, whereas waiting time is exploited in terms of leisure opportunities potentially provided by TIHs once designed as community hubs suitable to operate in a harsh climate environment.…”