An integrated transportation model is proposed to be developed for the Memphis, Tennessee metropolitan area that will incorporate the existing transportation planning model developed based on TRANSCAD, a Dynamic traffic Assignment (DTA) model using the Visual Interactive System for Transport Algorithms (VISTA), a microscopic traffic simulator using the PARAMICS software and a traffic operations software using SYNCHRO. The integrated model will provide a comprehensive tool for planners and traffic operators to model various infrastructure and operations alternatives and select the best ones for implementation. Its implementation in Memphis Tennessee will provide a comprehensive research tool for both training, classroom use, research and provide the basis for the development of an implementation tool – with further calibration - that could be adopted by the MPOs, DOT, emergency operators and the City.

Start date: 2011/1/1, End date: 2012/6/30

Sponsor Organization: University of Memphis, Center for Advanced Intermodal Technologies, 3815 Central Avenue, Memphis, TN 38152-3370

Matching Funds: CUNY Institute for Transportation Systems Universal Transportation Model Simulation Center and VISTA Transport Group (VTG) Inc.

Performing Organization: University of Memphis, Center for Advanced Intermodal Technologies, 3815 Central Avenue, Memphis, TN 38152-3370

Principal Investigator:

Mihalis M. Golias, Phone: (901) 678-3048, Fax: (901) 678-3026

Co-Principal Investigators:

Martin E. Lipinski, Phone: (901) 678-3279, Fax: (901) 678-3026

Neville A. Parker, Phone: (212) 650-8047, Fax: (212) 650-8374

Stephanie Ivey, Phone: (901) 678-3286, Fax: (901) 678-3026

Dynamic Transportation Capacity Planning for New Product Diffusion: An Integrated ABMS- Optimization Framework             

This study will be developing a dynamic transportation capacity planning method for a newly introduces product, where estimated demand a different stages of a new product life-cycle provides input to the planning process. The new approach would combine agent-based simulation modeling to represent the new product diffusion, a module for optimizing price and time duration contract parameters, and a risk assessment/mitigation module. As a case study, the new dynamic transportation capacity planning method would be applied to development and design of suppliers network of raw biomaterials for biofuels manufacturing, where the raw biomaterials is treated as “new product.” The embedded uncertainties of supplier counts, supply quantity, and supplier locations induce a significant level of complexity into the decision-making environment. The goal of this research is to develop, validate and test a mechanism for integrating issues of marked growth and supplier identification with transportation capacity planning.

Start date: 2011/6/1, End date: 2011/5/31

Sponsor Organization: University of Memphis, Center for Advanced Intermodal Technologies, 3815 Central Avenue, Memphis, TN 38152-3370

Performing Organization: University of Memphis, Center for Advanced Intermodal Technologies, 3815 Central Avenue, Memphis, TN 38152-3370

Principal Investigators:

Michael Racer, Phone: (901) 678-3285, Fax: (901) 678-5459

Mehdi Amini, Phone: (901) 678-2479, Fax: (901) 678-2685

Recruiting Long Haul Truck Drivers

This research will identify what is important to the different segments of truck drivers, and allowing trucking companies to better target qualified drivers in their recruitment advertising efforts. With the need for qualified drivers nationwide, findings from this study have significant implications for transportation companies across the country competing for drivers. In particular, because the Memphis Metropolitan area is a hub of activity for logistics and supply chain management, there are significant local implications as well.

Start date: 2011/6/1, End date: 2012/5/30

Sponsor Organization: University of Memphis, Center for Advanced Intermodal Technologies, 3815 Central Avenue, Memphis, TN 38152-3370

Performing Organization: University of Memphis, Center for Advanced Intermodal Technologies, 3815 Central Avenue, Memphis, TN 38152-3370

Principal Investigator:

Marla Stafford, Phone: (901) 678-2499, Fax: (901)678-4051

The Current State of Supply Chain Security Practices in Mid-South Firms

This research project will include the following activities: 1) Comprehensive review of supply chain security literature 2) In-depth interviews with representatives of selected firms operating in the Mid-South to develop an understanding of current supply chain security practices 3) Development and administration of an online survey to assess respondents’ perceptions of current challenges, supply chain security drivers and organizational culture. This study will focus on shippers, 3PLs, and carrier involved truck ad intermodal (tuck/rail) modes of transportation. Members of Mid-South area supply chain management oriented professional organizations, e.g., Regional Logistics Council, Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals, Traffic Club, and Mid-South Cargo Security Council will be asked to participate in this study.

Start date:2011/6/1, End date: 2012/5/30

Sponsor Organization: University of Memphis, Center for Advanced Intermodal Technologies, 3815 Central Avenue, Memphis, TN 38152-3370

Performing Organization: University of Memphis, Center for Advanced Intermodal Technologies, 3815 Central Avenue, Memphis, TN 38152-3370

Principal Investigator:

Ernie Nichols, Phone: (901) 678-4973, Fax: (901) 678-5129

Co-Principal Investigator

Shawn Jones, Phone: (901) 678-4973, Fax: (901) 678-5129