Analysis of Travel Behavior Using Three-Parameter Data Loggers

Abstract

Data loggers were used in Atlanta to measure vehicle velocity, engine revolutions per minute, and manifold absolute pressure on 77 vehicles. The in-vehicle data loggers measured the characteristics of more than 4,600 trips generated by these drivers. The resulting database provides a rich source of information on travel patterns, trip speed, trip duration, and maximum velocity. The use of data loggers that actually measure engine performance presents a unique opportunity to infer travel behavior from a nontraditional source. In a sample application, the database was refined and analyzed to measure urban and suburban trip-chaining behavior. While this application is for a small number of travelers, it is useful in demonstrating the benefits of recording travel behavior through the use of data loggers. The findings outline the potential of this method in investigating travel behavior in urban areas. Many findings from the sample application are consistent with expectations with the notable exception of urban chained trips, which generally had longer trip durations than suburban chained trips.