Examining the Predictive Power of Link and Origin-Destination Flows for Estimating Path Utilization

The authors present, then test, a methodology for determining path flows based on data from field sensors and probes. The methodology is described, predictions validated, robustness assessed, and an example of its use presented. Throughout the paper, three data conditions are examined: field data that are error-free, field data that contain uncertainty (from point sensors and probes), and demand estimates of variable credibility. The authors especially consider the predictive power of point sensors, such as loop detectors. Unfortunately, the point sensor data, when used in conjunction with demand estimates, has great difficulty estimating path utilization coefficients even for small networks; even when substantial inference, like traffic flow modeling is incorporated. It suggests that, for larger networks, the results might be worse yet. Based on this, the authors see a strong motivation to invest in probe sensor systems. These are likely to have a profound effect on the quality of the path flow estimates and they will decrease the dependence on inference in generating high-quality path utilization estimates.

• Corporate Authors:

  Transportation Research Board

  500 Fifth Street, NW
  Washington, DC  United States  20001
• Authors:
  • Demers, Alixandra
  • List, George
• Conference:
  • Transportation Research Board 88th Annual Meeting
  • Location: Washington DC, United States
  • Date: 2009-1-11 to 2009-1-15
• Date: 2009

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: DVD
• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 16p
• Monograph Title: TRB 88th Annual Meeting Compendium of Papers DVD

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Field tests; Loop detectors; Network links; Origin and destination; Public transit; Sensors; Transit operating agencies; Travel surveys; Utilization
• Subject Areas: Data and Information Technology; Highways; Planning and Forecasting; Public Transportation; I72: Traffic and Transport Planning;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01127373
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: 09-2925
• Files: TRIS, TRB
• Created Date: Apr 29 2009 11:34AM