Traffic simulation application to plan real-time distribution routes

Abstract

This paper studies the effect of real-time information on optimal routes employed by distribution vehicles that supply goods from distribution centers to the stores in any retail environment. This methodology uses simulation models to mimic actual traffic conditions as functions of times of the day along the distribution routes to suggest meta-optimal routes over the ones provided by the routing algorithms. This yields optimized routes based on the times of the day in addition to aiding the planner in sequencing the routes to increase driver productivity and decrease operating costs.