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1126. The value of modular buses optimization

Invited abstract in session MB-29: Combinatorial Optimization models and applications in Logistics and Transportation II, stream Combinatorial Optimization.

Monday, 10:30-12:00
Room: 157 (building: 208)

Authors (first author is the speaker)

1. Carlo Filippi
Dept. of Economics and Management, University of Brescia
2. Gianfranco Guastaroba
Department of Economics and Management, University of Brescia
3. Lorenzo Peirano
University of Brescia
4. M. Grazia Speranza
Dept. of Quantitative Methods, University of Brescia

Abstract

Modular bus systems recently attracted attention due to their potential ability increase the flexibility and efficiency in transit networks scheduling. In this work, we focus on the potential advantages of modular buses with respect to fixed-capacity buses.
We develop a static optimization model to minimize the total number of modules flowing in a given network of bus lines. The model assumes that for a set of origin-destination pairs located at the stops of the bus network, a rate of transport demand is given and must be satisfied. Buses are formed by one or more connected identical modules. Modules can be attached/detached at the endpoints of a line and at intersections of lines. Empty modules can be transferred among different endpoints and intersections if needed. The model establishes the rate of departure of modules from each endpoint and intersection along each line and the rate of transfer of empty modules among endpoints and intersections that allow to satisfy the demand of transport using a minimum number of modules. By analyzing two extreme cases, we bound the relative value of module sharing among lines and the relative value of empty module rebalancing.
Computational experiments on instances derived from real-world transportation networks show the validity of the model and the saving in total transport capacity that can be obtained from a modular system with respect to a fixed-capacity system.

Keywords

Status: accepted

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