Towards a dynamic discrete-choice model of household automobile fleet size and composition

The emphasis on energy consumption in studies of traveller behaviour has led to increased interest in the development of policy sensitive models of automobile demand. In recognition of the fuller dimensions of automobile demand, a number of studies have considered choice amongst types of automobiles as well as number of automobiles. With rare exception, existing studies have concentrated on either type choice or number choice. In all instances the approach has been static. This paper develops a series of linked discrete-choice models to explain household automobile holdings (type and number) and adjustments in the holdings over time. The empirical study is part of an initial data effort leading up to the development of a full scale longitudinal panel of Sydney households. A model system based on a retrospective panel of 354 households, interviewed in 1980, is reported herein. The model is dynamic in the sense that it allows for prior decisions, brand loyalty and the costs of transacting.     

Wave Propagation in a Finite Cascade of Masses and Springs Representing a Train

The response of a train, modelled with a cascade of bodies and springs, due to a step force at the locomotive is investigated. In this model the mass of the locomotive and the last wagon may differ from that of the other wagons. An analytic solution is given for a finite and for a semi-infinite cascade and a comparison to the solution of a continuous model is made.     

Passing sight distance on two-lane highways: Review and revision

Several models have been developed to determine the minimum passing sight distance required for safe and efficient operation on two-lane highways. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials has developed a model assuming that once the driver begins a pass, he/she has no opportunity but to complete it. This assumption is believed to result in exaggerated passing sight distance requirements. Considerably shorter passing sight distance values are presented in the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices and are used as the marking standards in Canada and the U.S.A. More appropriate models have been developed considering the driver's opportunity to abort the pass, and are based on a critical sight distance which produces the same factor of safety whether the pass is completed or aborted. However, these models need to be revised to determine the passing sight distance requirements more accurately and to closely match field observations. In this paper, a revised model for determining the minimum required passing sight distance was developed, based on the concept of critical sight distance and considering the kinematic interaction between the passing, passed, and opposing vehicles. The results of the revised model were compared with field data and showed that the revised model simulates the passing manoeuvre better than the currently-available models which are either too conservative or too liberal. The results showed that the passing sight distance requirements recommended in the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices are sufficient at low design speeds (50–60 k.p.h.) and for manoeuvres involving passenger cars only. For higher design speeds, the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices standards are less than the passing sight distance required for safe and comfortable passes. The deficiency was found to increase with the increase in design speed, and reaches about 36% at a 120-k.p.h. design speed. Based on these results, major revisions to the current Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices marking standards are recommended.     

Development of vessel traffic services: Legal considerations

Legislative measures, rather than further technological advances, are needed if there is to be any extensive development of Vessel Traffic Services. Reasons are given why this conclusion differs from that of the COST 301 Study with respect to legal liability of Vessel Traffic Services.     

Damping Performance of Power Transmission System with Hydraulic Torque Converter

In this work three first-order nonlinear, nonstationary differential equations describing a hydraulic torque converter in a power transmission system are used.

A linear model is obtained on the basis of these equations. This model is verified both theoretically and by an experimental test. On the basis of the calculations the torsional damping was determined. This permitted the damping performance of a power transmission system with a hydraulic torque converter to be defined and established.     

Jack-up conversion for production

For the production development of marginal offshore oil fields or to achieve early production in offshore fields scheduled for full production facilities a jack-up drilling rig can be converted to operate as a mobile production unit. This paper presents a summary discussion of the main aspects to be considered in the design, conversion, installation and operation of a jack-up production unit.