Autonomous Minibus Service with Semi-on-demand Routes in Grid Networks

TL;DR

This paper explores autonomous minibuses operating on semi-on-demand and fixed routes in grid networks, demonstrating cost reductions through mathematical modeling and simulations in Chicago scenarios.

Contribution

It introduces a novel route conversion method for autonomous minibuses combining on-demand and fixed routes in low-density grid networks.

Findings

Cost reductions in passenger and generalized costs.

Effective route conversion strategies for autonomous minibuses.

Validated benefits through simulations and case studies.

Abstract

This paper investigates the potential of autonomous minibuses which take on-demand directional routes for pick-up and drop-off in a grid network of wider area with low density, followed by fixed routes in areas with demand. Mathematical formulation for generalized costs demonstrates its benefits, with indicators proposed to select existing bus routes for conversion with the options of zonal express and parallel routes. Simulations on modeled scenarios and case studies with bus routes in Chicago show reductions in both passenger costs and generalized costs over existing fixed-route bus service between suburban areas and CBD.