An Individual-Based Simulation Approach to Demand Responsive Transport

Abstract

This article demonstrates an approach to the simulation of Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) -a flexible transport mode that typically operates as a combination of taxi and bus modes. Travellers request individual trips and DRT is capable of adjusting its routes or schedule to the needs of travellers. It has been seen as a part of the public transport network, which has the potential to reduce operational costs of public transport services, to provide better service quality for population groups with limited mobility and to improve transport fairness. However, a DRT service needs to be thoroughly planned to target the intended user groups, attract a sufficient demand level and maintain reasonable operational costs. As the demand for DRT is dynamic and heterogeneous, it is difficult to simulate it with a macro approach. To address this problem, we develop and evaluate an individual-based simulation comprising models of traveller behaviour for both supply and demand sides. Travellers choose a trip alternative with a mode choice model and DRT vehicle routing utilises a model of travellers' mode choice behaviour to optimise routes. This allows capturing supply-side operational costs and demand-side service quality for every individual, what allows for designing a personalised service that can prioritise needy groups of travellers improving transport fairness. By simulating different setups of DRT services, the simulator can be used as a decision support tool.

Potential Benefits of Demand Responsive Transport in Rural Areas: A Simulation Study in Lolland, Denmark

“…We argue that for a DRT service that positions itself as individualised PT, it is important to understand and adapt to customer needs (see further discussion in [15]). Additionally, for a service type that has historically shown a large degree of failed trials [2], it is important to fine-tune the service configuration for the specific niche in the area.…”

“…We connected these tools to a custom event-driven simulator (github.com/serdyt/DRTsim/tree/lolland_dep_tw, accessed on 1 March 2022) that implements traveller and service models and orchestrates the rest of the tools. More details can be found in [15].…”

“…DRT, unlike regular buses, has the potential to be utilised for both the general public and special groups [14]. Moreover, we argue that DRT is inherently better suited to provide the service required for special groups because it can provide a flexible level of service corresponding to the needs of travellers [15]. Door-to-door type of trips could be perceived as secure (when it is dark outside), which could motivate parents to allow their children to travel alone to their activities [16,17].…”