Verification of Cyclist Simulation Model

Abstract

To intrigue more people to cycle, it is essential to assess the current design of the cycling infrastructure to guarantee the efficiency and safety for the users. A credible simulation of cyclists is helpful to evaluate different designs of infrastructure and point out the problem. A valid simulation model requires proper verification and validation. However, there was hitherto no standard procedure to conduct model verification, and limited studies were found related to the verification of cyclist simulation models. To fill this gap, this study develops a verification framework for traffic simulation models based on the methodologies used in the literature. It also briefly discusses the difference to verify a cyclist simulation model. The framework is assessed by applying to a case study of the cyclist-queue-formation simulation model. The results prove the applicability of the framework to verify a cyclist simulation model. The organised structure of the framework provides a systematic measure for the verification of traffic simulation models. Furthermore, the cyclist-queue-formation simulation model is verified within the study area, where its conceptual model is proposed. The room for improvement of the simulation model regarding the relatively slow correction behaviour in steering and pedalling of the cyclists was also indicated.