Locating of variable message signs in parking guidance systems

Aiming to optimise the locations of variable message signs in parking guidance and information systems (PGIs), the location-selecting optimisation model was set up to specify the positions of variable message signs on road networks. The model was based on analyses of parking guidance grading and had the target of maximising guidance efficiency by combining analyses of the characteristics of parking flows. This optimisation model can ensure that all the parking flows are effectively guided, subject to the density restriction of variable message signs on road networks. The solution method for the model uses a genetic algorithm and after development a numerical example has been used to demonstrate the application of the model. The model can be used in the design of PGIs to determine the optimal locations of variable message signs on road networks in order to improve both the rationalities of the design and the parking guidance efficiencies.