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Data Analysis and Presentation

The primary purpose of a transport model is to demonstrate what will happen in a transport network when changes are made to the structure of the network, the control of the network or the demand placed on the network. The primary purpose of the data analysis and presentation functions in Aimsun Next is to convey the results of the model with clarity so that they can be readily understood and interpreted by transport decision makers.

Static assignment models use aggregated trips assigned to paths in the transport network to model the speed and flow of traffic. Their outputs are given in terms of these measurements, the speed and flow, the travel time between origin and destination and in terms of network wide accumulated values and average values.

Microsimulation models are capable of producing much more detailed data on the behavior of individual vehicles, on the actions of dynamic control systems and on the interactions between vehicles. Microsimulation models can also have their outputs aggregated so they can produce similar outputs to static assignment models.

Presentation of results can be based on their distribution by location, i.e. to see where congestion is occurring or on their distribution by time, i.e. to see when congestion is occurring. Presentation can show a summary of the results on a map, in graphs, or - for microsimulation models - as a moving image of the vehicles in the network in 2D or 3D display with as high quality levels of video production applied if required.

More sophisticated presentation techniques can be used to summaries large quantities of data into easily assimilated views such as decision tables or isochrone displays or data can be exported for further analysis either by loading it into a generic database and making it available for ad-hoc processing or by writing files for specific types of analysis such as emissions analysis (Versit) or safety assessments (SSAM).

This section on Data Analysis and Presentation is structured as follows:

  • Preferences: This section covers the customization options for outputs.

  • Database storage: Specifies how to control where the data outputs are stored.

  • Outputs: The Outputs section is a list of simulation outputs and a definition of the database tables used to store the simulation results.

  • Analysis Tools: A range of data analysis tools providing specialized analysis of the performance of the transport network.

  • Map Output: This section describes the 2D Map based outputs available in the main view window. These outputs are based on View Modes which control what data is displayed and View Styles. Several View Styles can be used to create one View Mode to create composite displays of thematic map based data. Maps can also be annotated with Dynamic Labels and Legends.

  • Animated Outputs: This section covers the animated outputs in 2D and 3D from a dynamic simulation model. In 2D it also covers Transit outputs and Traffic Signals. The 3D section covers camera viewpoints and assembling a sequence f views.

  • Printing: This section covers taking outputs from maps and time series and creating templates for printed outputs, ready for inclusion in written reports.