Dynamic Routing Decisions for Commercial Vehicle Operations in Real-Time Traffic Conditions

Abstract

The application of intelligent transportation system technologies to facilitate freight mobility requires dynamic routing decisions to reduce operational costs and enhance service levels. Although most route planning or scheduling methods studied in the literature assume fixed or static travel times for the networks, an attempt is made to focus on the dynamic routing decisions in response to real-time information. A microscopic traffic simulation model coupled with a link-to-link shortest-path search with turning penalties is suggested and developed to evaluate the potential benefits of the dynamic routing decisions, which considers both updated link travel times and the incident conditions detected. The simulation results are described and discussed. Some interesting issues for future research needs are also recommended. This research will help logistics companies assess the benefits of the routing advisory systems that they use for their day-to-day operations.