A Model Layout Region Optimization for Feeder Buses of Rail Transit

This paper analyses the characteristics of urban rail transit and conventional buses and then expands on the necessity of combining them. Based on previous studies, a method of laying region and route of urban rail transit feeder buses is proposed. According to the definition of marginal trip distance which is the boundary of choosing a direct bus or rail-feeder bus (transfer is considered here) to destination, the influence of service level on passenger's choosing behavior is combined with the generalized trip cost in the indirect gravitation-regions of urban rail transit. On this basis, a model for layout region of feeder buses is constructed and an algorithm is proposed. Finally, a numerical example of the joining routine layout between urban rail transit and conventional buses in Baiyun District, Guangzhou City, China is presented to evaluate the model. The result shows that the model with high accuracy is easy to apply, and is the important basis for laying design of feeder buses. (C) 2012 Published by Elsevier B.V. Selection and/or peer review under responsibility of Beijing Jiaotong University [BJU], Systems Engineering Society of China (SESC)