Control applications in analyzing transportation system performance under dynamic constraints

A feedback dynamic model of transportation systems is presented. The dynamic method used emphasizes the long-term, delayed causal mechanisms that determine transportation demand, transportation supply and transportation resources over time. The model uses demographic and socioeconomic data and transportation system characteristics as inputs and evaluates alternative transportation management policies by analyzing their impacts on transportation system performance through time. Control variables available to the management include transit fare and transit frequency, and are subject to fuel availability and price. Performance indeces considered minimize energy consumption and passenger waiting time, and maximize load factors and system revenue.