Simulation-based particle swarm optimization technique for the breadth design of stairs and passageway network at interchange stations

Abstract

This study reports a novel hybrid simulation based Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) technique using PH-Distribution for the design of facilities at transit stations. First, a Discrete-Event Simulation (DES) model for the network of stairs and passageway is developed that incorporates all influential factors that were ignored by the existing design codes (TCRP Report-165). The DES model is coupled with the PSO technique to build an automated framework for the area of network of stairs and passageway. The experimental results by hybrid simulationoptimization reveal that: (1) increase in randomness (SCV) of passengers’ arrival causes increase in the breadth of both passageways and stairs; 2) For the same arrival rate and SCV, the stairs breadths are more than passageway breadths; 3) The breadth decreases from Level of Service (LOS) B towards D.