Application of a transport macro model for assessing the assignment of urban freight traffic

Abstract. Problem. The volume of contemporary scientific research dedicated to modeling urban freight transport flows remains insufficient. There are no scientific publications addressing such studies for the city of Kryvyi Rih. This highlights the relevance of developing a macroscopic freight transport model for Kryvyi Rih, which would enable the assessment of freight traffic assignment across the city’s road network. Goal. Determination of functional relationships for freight traffic flow modeling in Kryvyi Rih using a macroscopic transport model. Methodology. The research methodology is based on the classical four-step travel demand model, which involves determining the appropriate parameters for functional relationships used at various modeling stages, namely: trip generation, travel cost calculation, trip distribution, and assignment. The changes in demand were assessed by measuring freight traffic intensity at seven locations in the city of Kryvyi Rih, while changes in supply were evaluated by identifying segments of the street network with restrictions on the movement of heavy freight vehicles. To validate the traffic assignment procedure within the model, the convergence criterion known as the «GAP» (hypothetic vehicle impedance) was applied. Results. As a result of the modeling, freight traffic flow intensities were determined for all segments of the street and road network in the city of Kryvyi Rih. Originality. The functional relationships identified for modeling the distribution of freight vehicles across the network contribute to the advancement of existing freight demand research methods using specialized software tools. Practical value. The model enables the analysis of an unlimited number of scenarios related to changes in urban freight transport in the city of Kryvyi Rih.