Optimized Combination Model and Algorithm of Parking Guidance Information Configuration

Operators of parking guidance and information (PGI) systems often have difficulty providing the best car park availability information to drivers in periods of high demand. A new PGI configuration model based on the optimized combination method is proposed by analyzing parking choice behavior. This paper firstly describes a parking choice behavioral model incorporating drivers perceptions of waiting times at car parks based on PGI signs. Then relationships are developed for estimating the arrival rates at car parks based on driver characteristics, car park attributes and car park availability information displayed on PGI signs. A mathematical program is formulated to determine the optimal display PGI sign configuration to minimize total travel time. A genetic algorithm is used to identify solutions that reduce queue lengths and total travel time. These procedures were applied to a PGI system operating in Deqing Town near Shanghai, producing significant reductions in total travel time of parking vehicles.