A METHODOLOGY FOR ACTIVITY-BASED TRAVEL ANALYSIS: THE STARCHILD MODEL

This paper presents a policy sensitive approach to modeling travel behavior based on activity pattern analysis.The approach includes the formulation of a theory of complex travel behavior based on a recognition of the full range of interdependencies associated with an individual's travel decisions in a constrained environment. In the approach advanced travel is viewed as input to a more basic process involving activity decisions. A fundamental tenet of this approach is that travel decisions are driven by the collection of activities that form an agenda for participation; the utility of any specific travel decision can be determined only within the context of the entire agenda.Based on the theory, an operational system of models, STARCHILD (Simulation of Travel/Activity Responses to Complex Household Interactive Logistic Decisions), has been developed to examine the formation of household travel/activity patterns employing a simulation approach in combination with techniques of pattern recognition, multiobjective optimization and disaggregate choice models. Initial empirial verification of the system of models is presented based on results obtained from a sample data set.Conclusions are drawn concerning the merits of activity-based procedures relative to traditional approaches to travel demand modeling.