Iterative Algorithm for Passenger Flow Estimation in Transport Networks
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for estimating operational indicators in passenger transport networks, such as average waiting times and passenger loads, are either unreliable due to manual sampling or computationally intensive using graph theory, necessitating a more efficient and automated approach to optimize calculation time.
Innovation Solution
An iterative algorithm is implemented on chosen paths using recorded input/output data, which optimizes calculation time by determining representative paths and estimating indicators like average waiting times and passenger loads through a programmable device, distributing and optimizing calculations across interconnected workstations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual counting of passengers by people is used, then sampled results are obtained, but the reliability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical counting with an automated electronic system that uses recorded input/output data from the transport network. The iterative algorithm processes this data computationally to estimate operational indicators, eliminating the need for physical manual counting while improving both reliability and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses recorded input/output data as a copy of actual passenger flow information to estimate operational indicators. Instead of directly observing and counting passengers, the system processes recorded data that represents passenger movements, providing reliable estimates without requiring physical presence at stations.
2Measurement precision
If graph theory methods are used to model the transport network, then comprehensive analysis is achieved, but long calculation times are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex graph theory problem into manageable components by focusing on specific paths between stations rather than analyzing the entire network at once. The iterative algorithm processes recorded data along these segmented paths, maintaining measurement precision while significantly reducing computational complexity and time requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by using recorded input/output data for specific journeys rather than comprehensively modeling all possible passenger movements. This selective approach provides sufficient precision for operational indicators without requiring the exhaustive calculation time of complete graph theory modeling.
3Productivity
If iterative algorithm on chosen paths is implemented, then calculation time is optimized, but complexity of implementation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-selecting representative paths between stations and preparing the iterative algorithm structure before actual data processing. This upfront preparation simplifies the implementation during operation, as the complex path selection and algorithm setup is done once, enabling fast subsequent calculations with recorded data.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and device for estimating at least one indicator characterizing the operation of a passenger transport network comprising a set of stations, each station comprising at least one platform for loading and/or unloading passengers in a transport vehicle of the network, the network being equipped with a system allowing the recording, in association with an identifier, of network entry/exit data, a piece of entry/exit data consisting of an entry station and an associated date and time of entry, and an exit station and an associated date and time of exit. The method comprises a prior step (30) of calculating and recording, for each pair of stations of the network, at least one chosen journey between the stations of the pair of stations, according to static data (32) characterizing the transport network. It also comprises the obtaining (36) of entry/exit data on journeys made in the network during an observation period and the calculation (40) of an indicator characterizing the functioning of the network, comprising the calculation of an average wait time for each platform of the network during one or more elementary temporal periods by implementing an iterative algorithm using all the chosen journeys and all the entry/exit data. The invention also relates to a method of modifying a parameter of the functioning of a transportation network according to the estimated indicator.