applied sciences Article The Dynamic Optimization of the Departure Times of Metro Users during Rush Hour in an Agent-Based Simulation: A Case Study in Shenzhen, China Yuliang Xi 1,2, Qingyun Du 1,2,*, Biao He 3, Fu Ren 1,2, Yu Zhang 1,2 and Xinyue Ye 4 ID 1 School of Resources and Environmental Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China;
[email protected] (Y.X.);
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[email protected] (Y.Z.) 2 Key Laboratory of Geographic Information Systems, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University, Luoyu Road 129, Wuhan 430079, China 3 College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shenzhen University, Nanhai Street 3688, Nanshan District, Shenzhen 518061, China;
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[email protected]; Tel.: +86-27-6877-8842; Fax: +86-27-6877-8893 Received: 13 September 2017; Accepted: 18 October 2017; Published: 25 October 2017 Abstract: As serious traffic problems have increased throughout the world, various types of studies, especially traffic simulations, have been conducted to investigate this issue. Activity-based traffic simulation models, such as MATSim (Multi-Agent Transport Simulation), are intended to identify optimal combinations of activities in time and space. It is also necessary to examine commuting-based traffic simulations. Such simulations focus on optimizing travel times by adjusting departure times, travel modes or travel routes to present travel suggestions to the public. This paper examines the optimal departure times of metro users during rush hour using a newly developed simulation tool. A strategy for identifying relatively optimal departure times is identified.