Search Results (75)

Vehicle congestion and the environmental problems associated with the increasing vehicle fleet have led stakeholders to create solutions to these problems. Park-and-Ride (P&R) facilities are provided as a solution for public transportation to avoid increasing vehicular flow and using private vehicles. However, the optimal location of these facilities is still a challenge to be considered. Therefore, this article aims to present a systematic review of the mathematical models applied for P&R localization, using the PRISMA protocol to ensure a comprehensive analysis. A total of 44 articles between 2002 and 2025 were identified into four categories: decision support models, econometric models, optimization models, and other models. The review also examines the term distribution of urban contexts where the mathematical models are applied, distinguishing between Global North versus Global South urban contexts. The results showed the efficiency of mathematical models within the decision support models category due to their integration with multiple criteria. The econometric models analyze factors influencing user behavior, while the optimization models improve and optimize the efficiency of transport networks despite facing computational challenges. Finally, other models, such as multilevel programming and fuzzy logic, offer adaptive solutions for highly variable urban environments. The primary contribution of this study is its comprehensive application of the mathematical models used for the location of P&R facilities. This offers a systematic approach for anticipating future urban situations, developing supporting policies, and analyzing their effects. Full article

In the context of big data and intelligent connectivity, optimizing scheduled bus dispatch can enhance urban transit efficiency and passenger experience, which is vital for the sustainable development of urban transportation. This paper, based on existing fixed bus stops, integrates traditional demand-responsive transit and travel booking models, considering the spatiotemporal variations in scheduled travel demands and passenger flows and addressing the combined scheduling issues of fixed-capacity bus models and skip-stop strategies. By leveraging intelligent connected technologies, it introduces a dynamic grouping method, proposes an intelligent connected bus dispatching model, and optimizes bus timetables and dispatch control strategies. Firstly, the inherent travel characteristics of potential reservation users are analyzed based on actual transit data, subsequently extracting demand data from reserved passengers. Secondly, a two-stage optimization program is proposed, detailing passenger boarding and alighting at each stop and section passenger flow conditions. The first stage introduces a precise bus–traveler matching dispatch model within a spatial–temporal–state framework, incorporating ride matching to minimize parking frequency in scheduled travel scenarios. The second stage addresses spatiotemporal variations in passenger demand and station congestion by employing a skip-stop and bus operation control strategy. This strategy enables the creation of an adaptable bus operation optimization model for temporal dynamics and station capacity. Finally, a dual-layer optimization model using an adaptive parameter grid particle swarm optimization algorithm is proposed. Based on Beijing’s Route 300 operational data, the simulation-driven study implements contrasting scenarios of different bus service patterns. The results demonstrate that this networked dispatching system with dynamic vehicle grouping reduces operational costs by 29.7% and decreases passenger waiting time by 44.15% compared to baseline scenarios. Full article

Traffic calming measures are implemented more and more often in residential districts as part of home zone sustainability projects. For economic reasons, road humps are the most commonly used traffic calming measures to slow down the traffic within the home zone. Prefabricated units or concrete pavers are the materials of choice for their construction. The studies carried out so far on many different road hump types covered the effect of height, approach/departure ramp inclination(s), and intervals between successive humps on the final speed and the safety of road traffic. The impacts of braking before and acceleration after passing a hump on the pavement and the effect of the associated shocks on the riding comfort of both drivers and passengers and vehicle suspension were also investigated. What is missing in the available literature is information on the slowing effect of road humps depending on the longitudinal gradient of the street and the street’s landscaping. This article is intended to fill this gap by presenting the results of speed surveys carried out on three selected two-way streets located in home zones with different longitudinal gradients and a few humps of different designs that are placed at different intervals. Speeds were measured both before and after each of the successive humps. The “after” speeds were found to depend not only on the hump type and parameters but also on the direction of travel, vertical alignment of the street, parking location, and orientation of the parking space relative to the road axis. Full article

With the continuous increase in car ownership, alleviating traffic congestion and reducing carbon emissions have become key challenges in urban traffic management. This study constructs a multi-agent model to evaluate the impact of various traffic optimization interventions on citizens’ travel behavior and traffic carbon emission levels. Different from previous mathematical models, this model integrates computer technology and geographic information systems, abstracting travelers as agents with self-control capabilities who can make independent decisions based on their own circumstances, thus reflecting individual differences in travel behavior. Using the real geographical and social environment of the high-density travel area in Xiaodian District, Taiyuan City as a case study, this research explores the overall improvement in the urban transportation system through the implementation of multiple traffic optimization interventions, such as a parking reservation system, the promotion of the park-and-ride mode, and the optimization of public transportation services. Studies have demonstrated that, compared to reducing bus fares, travelers exhibit a greater sensitivity to waiting times. Reducing bus departure intervals can increase the proportion of park-and-ride trips to 25.79%, surpassing the 19.19% increase observed with fare adjustments. A moderate increase in the proportion of reserved parking spaces can elevate the public transport load to 49.85%. The synergistic effect of a combined strategy can further boost the public transport share to 50.62%, while increasing the park-and-ride trip proportion to 33.6%, thereby highlighting the comprehensive benefits of implementing multiple strategies in tandem. When the parking reservation system is effectively implemented, carbon dioxide emissions can be reduced from over 800 kg to below 200 kg, and the proportion of vehicle cruising can decrease from over 20% to under 15%. These results underscore the critical role of the parking reservation strategy in optimizing traffic flow and advancing environmental sustainability. Full article

This study aimed to quantify the postures and muscle activity while parks and gardens workers operated ride-on mowers during a typical shift. Eight participants operated ride-on mowers in the same park but on different terrains (flat and undulating). Body postures and muscle activity were collected wirelessly and unobtrusively. Participants adopted a forward-flexed seated posture with the predominant movement being head rotation. Oscillatory movements (20–40° from neutral) of the thorax in all three planes of movement were noted in all participants. Low levels (<30% MVIC) of muscle activity were recorded in all muscles tested. These levels were elicited for most (>90%) of the recording time. Higher (>50% MVIC) activation levels were interspersed through the data, but these were not sustained. There was no difference in posture or muscle activity between the flat and undulating terrain. The forward-flexed posture combined with vibration can increase the risk of discomfort and injury in the low back while ride-on mowing. The low levels of muscle activity suggest participants did not actively brace for the occupational situation and task. The large inter-participant difference in posture attests to subjective variation to accommodate muscular stress, and this may not be optimal for injury mitigation. Full article

The park-and-ride (P&R) system is crucial for urban development and mobility as its strategic location helps to reduce congestion, reduce pollution, and encourage the use of public transport. Various methods have been proposed to determine its optimal location, ranging from algorithms and mathematical equations to multi-criteria approaches that consider a set of criteria and sub-criteria. Multi-criteria methods are diverse, and it is essential to know which methods have been applied to the optimal location of a P&R system. This study addresses the existing gaps in multi-criteria methods used in the localization of a P&R system through a systematic review based on the PRISMA protocol, examining 25 articles published between 2014 and 2024 in Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science (WOS). The results highlight that the multi-criteria AHP method is the most relevant and widely used. The criterion of accessibility to public transport is the most important criterion for setting up a P&R system in an urban environment. The flexibility of the multi-criteria AHP method, combined with other factors, makes it relevant in the process of P&R locations. However, the multi-criteria methods found in this research show that a wide range of multi-criteria methods have not yet been applied. Future research should focus on developing comprehensive systems that combine multiple multi-criteria methods, which is essential to optimize mobility solutions adapted to the specific characteristics and objectives of each city in establishing a P&R system. Full article

Public transportation is essential for improving urban mobility, enhancing travel quality, reducing reliance on private vehicles, and alleviating traffic congestion. However, inadequate public transportation in outer Melbourne is a significant issue limiting urban development. While existing research primarily focuses on walking distance to define service catchments, commuters in transit-disadvantaged or outlying urban areas often drive to transit, noted as the park-and-ride mode. This research uniquely examines drive-distance catchments for park-and-ride transit accessibility in outer Melbourne, using spatial SQL and GIS techniques to provide a detailed, multi-dimensional analysis of population coverage, parking capacity, and accessibility gaps. This approach fills a gap in the existing literature by offering adaptable insights and approaches to other outer urban areas with transit disadvantages. The findings underscore the necessity for targeted enhancements in public transportation in outer Melbourne: Most of the outer residents concentrate near the train stations, though significant spatial gaps exist; The general accessibility status of residential mesh blocks is found; Parking capacity varies with high tension found at certain stations. This study contributes insights to create more equitable and sustainable transportation systems by providing a detailed spatial analysis of current transit coverage and identifying critical gaps. Full article

Connected and automated vehicles (CAVs) are poised to revolutionize mobility. The relocation feature of CAVs enhances parking convenience for the public. Users can instruct CAVs to arrive at their work destination, drop them off, and then assign CAVs to a cost-effective parking facility through an optimized itinerary. However, realizing the benefits of CAVs depends on user acceptance, and the impact of relocation features on CAV acceptance remains an area that is yet to be explored. This study introduces a novel acceptance model to mainly investigate the effects of relocation-related factors on CAV acceptance through 717 valid responses. The results indicate that the perceived convenience of relocation (PCOR) indirectly increases human acceptance through three determinants, initial trust, perceived usefulness (PU), and perceived ease of use (PEOU), while initial trust, PU, and PEOU directly increase human acceptance. The public expectations of saving on parking fees (EOSPF) can enhance PCOR. Additionally, a multigroup analysis revealed that PCOR exerts a more positive impact on PU or PEOU in subgroups including males, pre-Generation-Z individuals, experienced drivers, and those with autopilot riding experience. The findings on mediators are also discussed. This study provides valuable insights for further research and the practical adoption of emerging CAVs. Full article

Traffic problems in China’s river–valley-type cities are prominent. In order to solve these traffic problems, this paper presents four aspects of motorists’ terrain spatial perception according to the characteristics of river–valley-type cities. Based on the structural equation model (SEM), four-dimensional terrain spatial perception is reduced by second-order confirmatory factor analysis. The SEM–Logit model was constructed to analyze the influences of individual socioeconomic attributes, objective built-environment attributes, travel characteristics, and terrain spatial perception on Park and Ride (P&R) use behavior, as well as the moderating effects of terrain spatial perception. The results show that the four latent variables can explain the terrain spatial perception of motorists in river–valley-type cities well. Objective built environments and motorists’ subjective terrain spatial perception have significant impacts on the use of P&R facilities in river–valley-type cities. The terrain spatial perception of motorists in a river–valley-type city moderates the impact of work–residence distance, road slope, river crossing demand, group travel, departure time, and the time saved on P&R use behavior. The research results can provide some reference for solving traffic problems in river–valley-type cities. Full article

Leisure activities are known to be especially important for the health of people with disabilities. In Belém, PA, an Amazonian city in Brazil, a nonprofitable organization has promoted leisure ridings in bicycles for those people in Utinga State Park, a large green area for physical and leisure activities. The handcrafted bikes have a sidecar attached for users with disabilities which are ridden by trained volunteers. Since such bikes have been empirically manufactured, they require some minor improvements in safety, comfort, and handling, and verification of structural strength. Therefore, ergonomic, modal, and forced vibration analyses assessed the user’s comfort and safety and a structural analysis with the use of strain gauges evaluated the bicycle’s structural strength. Initially, a numerical modal analysis was performed using the finite element method, and the modal model obtained was validated by an experimental modal analysis employing shaker excitation. ISO-2631-based evaluations of forced vibration and human body comfort were conducted regarding whole-body vibration in vehicles and mechanical equipment. Vibration measurements at the position of the rider and sidecar occupant were obtained during rides on the bicycle and, according to the results, in general, when subjected to loads, the bicycle showed low stress levels far from the yield stress of the material, promoting an excellent safety factor in relation to its structural integrity. The modal, comfort, and forced vibration analyses revealed a mode of vibration in the sidecar that caused discomfort to the back of the users. Ergonomics analysis pointed out changes in the handlebars, the bicycle seat, the coupling between the sidecar and the bike, and the dimensions of the sidecar will provide greater comfort and safety. This paper presents and discusses the proposed modifications to both bicycle and sidecar. Full article

Risk management involves thinking about what could happen if someone is exposed to a hazard and the likelihood of this event. The vast majority of standards relating to risk management were written in the context of Occupational Health and Safety, as well as Work Health and Safety with the aim of eliminating all risks. In 2023 Standards, Australia published AS ISO 4980:2023: `Benefit-risk assessment for sport and recreational facilities, activities and equipment’. This standard provides a tool for applying risk management in the context of sport and recreation. AS ISO 4980:2023 is a departure from the traditional view of risk management standards in that it presents a view of risk that is not limited to viewing risk only as negative, but rather balances positive benefits with negative risks within the sport and recreation industry. This standard is also different in that it is based specifically on risk to sport and recreational users and not to employees and employers. The benefit that risk provides in the context of sports and recreational activities is placed on an equal footing with the traditional method of assessing risk. There is an expectation in sports and recreational activities that the user is making an implicit trade-off between the benefits and the inherent risks of the activity, including the potential for harm. This implied expectation is that exposure to risk can be positive. Positive risk and learning from making mistakes are not restricted to childhood development where graduated challenges are used but extend throughout our entire life. The goal of this paper is to draw public attention to the new and different perspective of risk on which AS ISO 4980:2023 is based and to provide an understanding of the concept of benefit–risk assessment. The implications of viewing non-workplace risk in a balanced way are discussed. Full article

Park and Ride (P&R) as a demand management tool has the effect of reducing traffic congestion in urban centers, saving energy and reducing pollutant emissions. Since 2000, many cities in China have been constructing P&R facilities, which have partially alleviated urban traffic congestion and provided a time-reliable mode of travel for commuters heading to urban centers. However, in recent years, due to the pricing policy of the P&R facility, there has been an insufficient supply of P&R facilities in many places. In fact, the P&R system prefers to welcome travelers who make long-distance subway rides and does not want those who make short-distance subway rides to occupy more parking spaces. To address this, this paper proposes a tiered pricing strategy that considers charging parking fees based on the distance traveled by commuters after switching to public transportation, to improve the utilization of P&R. That is, charge less for parking for long-distance subway riders and more for short-distance subway riders. Firstly, based on questionnaire data from SP surveys, a fixed pricing mixed logit model (FP model) and a tiered pricing mixed logit model (TP model) for P&R facilities are constructed. Utilizing two models, we explored the mechanisms underpinning traveler’s mode choice influenced by daily habits and travel considerations through the comparison of the two models to validate the effectiveness of the tiered pricing for P&R facilities. The study found that the implementation of a tiered pricing method for P&R facilities increases its attractiveness to long-distance subway ride travelers, resulting in a higher proportion of long-distance subway riders among P&R commuters. In the study’s last section, a marginal effect analysis was conducted on the per-kilometer cost (Pkm) within the P&R model. This analysis determined the optimal Pkm for three subway travel distances within the P&R model. Consequently, it calculated the corresponding P&R parking fees for these three subway travel distances. Additionally, we have predicted the implementation effects of the tiered pricing scheme. Full article

In recent years, electric vehicles (EVs) have become increasingly popular, bringing about fundamental shifts in transportation to reduce greenhouse effects and accelerate progress toward decarbonization. The role of EVs has also experienced a paradigm shift for future energy networks as an active player in the form of vehicle-to-grid, grid-to-vehicle, and vehicle-to-vehicle technologies. EVs spend a significant part of the day parked and have a remarkable potential to contribute to energy sustainability as backup power units. In this way, EVs can be connected to the grid as stationary power units, providing a range of services to the power grid to increase its reliability and resilience. The available systems show that EVs can be used as alternative energy sources for various network systems like smart grids, microgrids, and virtual power plants besides transportation. While the grid–EV connection offers various contributions, it also has some limitations and effects. In this context, the current study highlights the power system impacts and key contributions of EVs connected to smart grids. Regarding the power system impacts in case of EV integration into smart grids, the challenges and difficulties are categorized under the power system stability, voltage/current distortions, load profile, and power losses. Voltage/current distortions like sags, unbalances, harmonics, and supraharmonics are also detailed in the study. Subsequently, the key contributions to the smart grid in terms of energy management, grid-quality support, grid balancing, and socio-economic impacts are explained. In the energy management part, issues such as power flow, load balancing, and renewable energy integration are elaborated. Then, the fault ride-through capability, reactive power compensation, harmonic mitigation, and grid loss reduction are presented to provide information on power quality enhancement. Lastly, the socio-economic impacts in terms of employment, net billing fees, integration with renewable energy sources, and environmental effects are elucidated in the present study. Full article

To enhance cycling comfort, a critical investigation of vibration effects in non-motorized bicycle riding is essential, focusing on road characteristics and traffic features. The analysis of how these elements influence cycling vibrations identified 13 key factors. This study utilized non-motorized bicycle lanes in Wuhan City for empirical research. Three-axis accelerometers were attached to riders’ torsos to measure vibration comfort levels. The observed road segments ranged from slightly to relatively uncomfortable. This study employed the random forest algorithm and logistic regression to analyze the influencing factors further. Six factors emerged as significant in affecting cycling comfort: the existence of dedicated non-motorized bicycle lanes, the lack of a physical barrier between non-motorized and motorized traffic, cycling speed, road surface irregularities, parking areas within non-motorized lanes, and bicycle type. This research offers valuable insights into non-motorized bicycle lane usage and contributes to the development of urban non-motorized bicycle infrastructure, supporting sustainable urban transportation. Full article

This research aimed to analyze and understand the perceived landscape preferences of lake parks (LPs) and how the public perceives and prefers these elements within the context of lake parks. The objective was to provide insights beneficial for landscape design, urban planning, and the creation of more appealing and sustainable lake parks. To achieve this, two primary methods were employed in this study: the Automated Machine Learning (Auto ML) model and the DeepLab v3+ model. To gather data for the research, 46,444 images were collected from 20 different lake parks from 2019 to 2022. Social media platforms such as Instagram, Flickr, and specific lake park community groups were tapped to source photographs from both professional photographers and the general public. According to the experimental findings, the perceived frequency of natural landscapes was 69.27%, which was higher than that of humanistic landscapes by 30.73%. The perceived intensity was also maintained between 0.09 and 0.25. The perceived frequency of water body landscapes was much greater on a macro-scale, at 73.02%, and the public had various plant preferences throughout the year. Aquatic plant landscapes with low-to-medium green visibility were preferred by the public, according to the landscape share characterization, while amusement rides with medium-to-high openness were preferred. The sky visibility of amusement rides was between 0 and 0.1 and between 0.3 and 0.5, indicating that the public preferred amusement rides with medium-to-high openness. In lake parks, the populace chose settings with less obvious architectural features. When combined, the two models used in this study are useful for identifying and analyzing the intended traits and preferences of lake parks among the general public. They also have theoretical and practical application value for directing the development of lake parks and urban landscapes. Full article