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Systems
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Modelling and Simulation of Transportation Systems
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Modelling and Simulation of Transportation Systems

A special issue of Systems (ISSN 2079-8954). This special issue belongs to the section "Systems Practice in Social Science".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 July 2025 | Viewed by 2438

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Eugen Rosca

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Transport Faculty, National University of Science and Technology Politehnica Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei, No. 313, RO-060042 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: transport; logistics; agent-based modeling; computer simulation; applied statistics; customer behavior; transport sustainability
Dr. Valentin Carlan

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Transport and Regional Economics, University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
Interests: transport and logistics; cost-effectiveness analysis; innovation; digitalization; sustainability; entrepreneurship in transport
Prof. Dr. Florin Valentin Rusca

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Transport Faculty, National University for Science and Technology Politehnica Bucharest, Spl Independentei, No. 313, RO-060042 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: transport; traffic simulation; urban planning; transport reliability; transport sustainability

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Transportation systems, with their complexity and need for consonance among infrastructures, vehicles, technologies, data, and humans, resemble the circulatory system of modern societies. Encompassing system design and architecture, capacity needs, data management, human factors and experience, risk management, sustainability and environmental impact, and interdisciplinary optimization, system engineering provides a broad approach to deal with the complexity, dynamic nature, and stochastic behavior of transport systems. Systems engineering encourages the use of modeling and simulation to validate assumptions or theories on systems and the interactions within them and with the environment. The contents of this Special Issue will concentrate on new methods and approaches in modeling and simulation that help practitioners, planners, decision-makers, and stakeholders to evaluate how transportation systems run under various conditions, predict behavior and future performance, and identify the most effective ways to manage them. There are certain benefits of modeling and simulation of transportation systems, such as cost-effectiveness, risk reduction, complex scenario testing, and optimization. We eagerly invite researchers and practitioners to share their insights, discoveries, solutions, or case studies that outline the use of modeling and simulation in turning transportation systems into more efficient, sustainable, and resilient ones.

Both original research and review papers are welcome for submission. Research topics on modeling and simulation of transportation systems include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Optimization of transportation system design and operations;
  • Predicting transportation system performance;
  • Transport policy evaluation and scenario testing;
  • Traffic flows and congestion analysis;
  • Freight and logistics optimization;
  • Risks, safety, and disruption management in transportation and logistics;
  • Agent-based modeling and simulation;
  • Advanced AI models in transportation;
  • Digital twins and the Internet of Things applied in transportation;
  • Impact of autonomous vehicles on traffic dynamics and control;
  • Environmental impact assessment.

Prof. Dr. Eugen Rosca
Dr. Valentin Carlan
Prof. Dr. Florin Valentin Rusca
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Systems is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • modeling and simulation
  • transportation systems
  • transportation optimization
  • transport scenario testing
  • traffic dynamics
  • logistics
  • intelligent transportation
  • sustainable and resilient transportation

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

30 pages, 7693 KiB  
Article
Analyzing New Operation Strategy of Demand-Responsive Transports Using Discrete-Event Simulation Framework
by Seung-Wan Cho, Yeong-Hyun Lim, Seong-Hyeon Ju and Kyung-Min Seo
Systems 2025, 13(4), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13040303 - 21 Apr 2025
Viewed by 295
Abstract
Demand-responsive transport (DRT) provides flexible ride-sharing by dynamically adjusting routes based on real-time user demand, making it suitable for complex urban mobility needs. This study proposes a modular simulation framework based on the DEVS (Discrete Event System Specification) formalism and introduces an “express [...] Read more.
Demand-responsive transport (DRT) provides flexible ride-sharing by dynamically adjusting routes based on real-time user demand, making it suitable for complex urban mobility needs. This study proposes a modular simulation framework based on the DEVS (Discrete Event System Specification) formalism and introduces an “express service” strategy that enables direct trips without intermediate stops. The framework supports scenario-based analysis using key performance indicators (KPIs) and allows for flexible testing of operational strategies. Two experiments were conducted: the first validated the simulation model under varying demand and fleet conditions; and the second assessed the impact of the express service. Results showed that express passengers experienced significantly shorter waiting and riding times, while standard passenger service remained stable. The strategy also improved operational efficiency under constrained resources. This study contributes to a configurable simulation platform for evaluating differentiated DRT services and provides practical insights for adaptive service planning, especially in urban settings where tiered mobility solutions are increasingly needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling and Simulation of Transportation Systems)
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22 pages, 4223 KiB  
Article
Algorithmic Identification of Conflicting Traffic Lights: A Large-Scale Approach with a Network Conflict Matrix
by Sergio Rojas-Blanco, Alberto Cerezo-Narváez, Sol Sáez-Martínez and Manuel Otero-Mateo
Systems 2025, 13(4), 290; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13040290 - 15 Apr 2025
Viewed by 284
Abstract
Efficient urban traffic management is crucial for mitigating congestion and enhancing road safety. This study introduces a novel algorithm, with code provided, to generate a traffic light conflict matrix, identifying potential signal conflicts solely based on road network topology. Unlike existing graphical approaches [...] Read more.
Efficient urban traffic management is crucial for mitigating congestion and enhancing road safety. This study introduces a novel algorithm, with code provided, to generate a traffic light conflict matrix, identifying potential signal conflicts solely based on road network topology. Unlike existing graphical approaches that are difficult to execute automatically, our method leverages readily available topological data and adjacency matrices, ensuring broad applicability and automation. While our approach deliberately focuses on topology as a stable foundation, it is designed to complement rather than replace dynamic traffic analysis, serving as an essential preprocessing layer for subsequent temporal optimization. Implemented in MATLAB, with specific functionality for Vissim users, the algorithm has been tested on various networks with up to 547 traffic lights, demonstrating high efficiency, even in complex scenarios. This tool enables focused allocation of computational resources for traffic light optimization and is particularly valuable for prioritizing emergency vehicles. Our findings make a significant contribution to traffic management strategies by offering a scalable and efficient tool that bridges critical gaps in current research. As urban areas continue to grow, this algorithm represents a step forward in developing sustainable solutions for modern transportation challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling and Simulation of Transportation Systems)
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19 pages, 3446 KiB  
Article
Hybrid Model for Motorway EV Fast-Charging Demand Analysis Based on Traffic Volume
by Bojan Rupnik, Yuhong Wang and Tomaž Kramberger
Systems 2025, 13(4), 272; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13040272 - 9 Apr 2025
Viewed by 319
Abstract
The expected growth of electric vehicle (EV) usage will not only increase the energy demand but also bring the requirement to provide the necessary electrical infrastructure to handle the load. While charging infrastructure is becoming increasingly present in urban areas, special attention is [...] Read more.
The expected growth of electric vehicle (EV) usage will not only increase the energy demand but also bring the requirement to provide the necessary electrical infrastructure to handle the load. While charging infrastructure is becoming increasingly present in urban areas, special attention is required for transit traffic, not just for passengers but also for freight transport. Differences in the nature of battery charging compared to that of classical refueling require careful planning in order to provide a resilient electrical infrastructure that will supply enough energy at critical locations during peak hours. This paper presents a hybrid simulation model for analyzing fast-charging demand based on traffic flow, projected EV adoption, battery characteristics, and environmental conditions. The model integrates a probabilistic model for evaluating the charging requirements based on traffic flows with a discrete-event simulation (DES) framework to analyze charger utilization, waiting queues, and energy demand. The presented case of traffic flow on Slovenian motorways explored the expected power demands at various seasonal traffic intensities. The findings provide valuable insight for planning the charging infrastructure, the electrical grid, and also the layout by anticipating the number of vehicles seeking charging services. The modular design of the model allowed replacing key parameters with different traffic projections, supporting a robust scenario analysis and adaptive infrastructure planning. Replacing the parameters with real-time data opens the path for integration into a digital twin framework of individual EV charging hubs, providing the basis for development of an EV charging hub network digital twin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling and Simulation of Transportation Systems)
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23 pages, 5889 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Influence of Equipment Reliability over the Activity Inside Maritime Container Terminals Through Discrete-Event Simulation
by Eugen Rosca, Florin Rusca, Valentin Carlan, Ovidiu Stefanov, Oana Dinu and Aura Rusca
Systems 2025, 13(3), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13030213 - 20 Mar 2025
Viewed by 284
Abstract
(1) Background: The reliability of port equipment is of significant interest to industry stakeholders due to the economic and logistical factors governing the operation of maritime container terminals. Failures of key equipment like quay cranes can halt operations or cause economically significant delays. [...] Read more.
(1) Background: The reliability of port equipment is of significant interest to industry stakeholders due to the economic and logistical factors governing the operation of maritime container terminals. Failures of key equipment like quay cranes can halt operations or cause economically significant delays. (2) Methods: The impact assessment of these disruptive events is conducted through terminal activity modeling and discrete-event simulation of internal processes. The system’s steady-state or transient condition, induced by disruptive events, is statistically assessed within a set of scenarios proposed by the authors. (3) Results: The Heidelberg–Welch and Geweke tests enabled the evaluation of steady-state and transient conditions within the modeled system, which was affected by the reduced reliability of container-handling equipment. (4) Conclusions: The research findings confirmed the usefulness of modeling and simulation in assessing the impact of equipment reliability on maritime container terminal operations. If the magnitude of the disruptive event exceeds the terminal’s absorption capacity, the system may become blocked or remain in a transient state without the ability to recover. This underscores the necessity of analyzing the reliability of critical handling equipment and implementing corrective maintenance actions when required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling and Simulation of Transportation Systems)
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16 pages, 1749 KiB  
Article
Riding Risk: Factors Shaping Helmet Use Among Two-Wheeled Electric Vehicle Riders in Fuzhou, China
by Wenhan Lin, Congying Li, Weibin Zheng, Linwei Wang and Yanqun Yang
Systems 2025, 13(3), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13030171 - 1 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 745
Abstract
With the rapid increase in the number of two-wheeled electric vehicles, the number of accidents related to them has also greatly increased. However, despite facing a huge threat from accidents, the helmet, an efficient and legally required protection for riders, is not popular [...] Read more.
With the rapid increase in the number of two-wheeled electric vehicles, the number of accidents related to them has also greatly increased. However, despite facing a huge threat from accidents, the helmet, an efficient and legally required protection for riders, is not popular with Chinese two-wheeled electric vehicles riders. To study the factors affecting helmet use for these riders, this paper conducted an observational study to collect helmet use data for 16,207 two-wheeled electric vehicle riders in Fuzhou, China. With these data, this paper built a multivariate logistic regression model to study the main effects of various factors on helmet use, and analyze the interaction effects of these factors. Results showed that, on the one hand, area, weather, temperature, controller, separated non-motor-vehicle lanes, time, rider’s age, and type of vehicle had significant effects on helmet use and the interaction between these factors is significant, especially the interaction between weather, temperature and other factors. On the other hand, level of service, gender and whether the riders are food delivery workers have no significant impact on helmet use, but show significant interaction effects with other factors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modelling and Simulation of Transportation Systems)
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