Shape and efficiency in spatial distribution networks

TL;DR

This paper investigates spatial distribution networks, showing they are near-optimal in cost and efficiency, and proposes growth models to explain their development based on real-world data.

Contribution

It demonstrates that real-world distribution networks are close to optimal in cost and efficiency, and introduces models explaining their growth and structure.

Findings

Distribution networks are near-optimal in length and route directness.

Proposed growth models explain the emergence of efficient network structures.

Real-world data supports the models' relevance.

Abstract

We study spatial networks that are designed to distribute or collect a commodity, such as gas pipelines or train tracks. We focus on the cost of a network, as represented by the total length of all its edges, and its efficiency in terms of the directness of routes from point to point. Using data for several real-world examples, we find that distribution networks appear remarkably close to optimal where both these properties are concerned. We propose two models of network growth that offer explanations of how this situation might arise.