Publication Details

The future of simulation and modeling in the Florida DOT

Type: Paper

Subtype: Final Report

Author(s): Hughes, Ronald G.

Publisher: Florida Department of Transportation

Url: https://trid.trb.org/view.aspx?id=690801

Publication Date: Aug-1998

Address: Tallahassee, FL

Abstract: Sophisticated simulation and modeling tools are rapidly becoming available for use in transportation. Computer image generation, global positioning systems (GPS), digital image processing, geographic information systems (GIS), networking, distributed processing, and open computer systems architecture are all becoming routine transportation engineering tools. This report describes current Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) research applications of these technologies, focusing on the development of the University of Central Florida (UCF) simulator. While the standalone capabilities of these new technologies can be remarkable indeed, their true impact is realized only through their effective integration and application (Varma, 1997). This involves integration at two levels: one, in terms of the functional integration of modeling and simulation; and the other, in terms of a recognition of the dependence of interoperability upon a common operating environment based upon common data requirements and the transportability of information from one application (e.g, modeling) to another (e.g., simulation). An awareness of military and defense program goals in these areas is suggestive of what might be similar development and application paths for the transportation field. A review of these technologies in light of the various 'strategic computing initiatives' of organizations like the Advanced Research Products Agency (ARPA) is helpful in illuminating what is meant by the development of a 'seamless' information environment (see Cosby 1995 and Goldiez, 1995). The present report describes current FDOT research applications of these new technologies and how one might approach their effective integration within the FDOT work environment. The original impetus for this report was the FDOT-supported simulator development effort at the University of Central Florida in Orlando (see Ellis and Bauer, 1997), and the need to explore not only how that facility might be used, but to also clarify its central role in developing an FDOT-wide focus on the increased use of modeling and simulation on a day-to-day basis.