Roy Lim - Safety Implications of Driver Cell Phone Usage Among College Students

Abstract: This research effort investigates the use of cell phone while driving and the associated crash risk for the college age drivers. A questionnaire was developed and distributed to University of Memphis students to ascertain information in three key areas: (1) Driving hours, (2) Types of cell phone usage – talking, texting, and other wireless functions and (3) Safety issues – incidences of crash or ‘close call’ using cell phones. The questionnaire was available online on the University of Memphis webpage (http://cifts.memphis.edu/cellphone.html) from February 12, 2009 until April 10, 2009, resulting in responses from 2445 students. Data was analyzed using: (1) Descriptive Statistics, (20 Frequency Figures, and (3) Mann-Whitney U Test. Results indicate that texting, emailing, and taking pictures while driving are related to higher incidences of close call occurrence, and thus cell phone usage is affecting students' driving safety. (Close call: Defined as an incident where driver engages in high risk traffic movement but avoids collision, i.e. drifting into adjacent lane, having to "slam on brakes,” etc.)

Aleksandra Maguire - Microsimulation Modeling of Gate Appointment Strategies at an Intermodal Rail Terminal

Abstract: The purpose of this thesis was to analyze the potential effect of gate strategies in reducing the impact of the newly expanded Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) intermodal facility on the transportation network adjacent to the yard. The goal of the research was to evaluate peak hour arrivals at the gate in a 24 hour period, and to determine if scheduled truck arrivals can relieve congestion at the gates and on the surrounding roadway network. To understand the effects the yard will have on the road network, the network was simulated using Paramics Microsimulation Software. Using the microsimulation software, three cases were evaluated: (1) Existing vehicle demand, (2) Tripled truck numbers from expected future demand and (3) Use of gate appointment systems on increased vehicle demand. Results indicate based on available data that gate appointment systems alone will not have a significant impact on reduction of network congestion.

Kaifeng Ji - Truck Scheduling Problem at a Cross-docking Facility

Abstract: As a relatively new concept of warehousing with limited storage time to maximize the throughput, cross-docking plays a significant role in an increasing number of companies’ warehousing policies in today’s customer driven economy. Problems relating to cross-dock facilities can be categorized into two groups: a) problems that consider the facility as a node within a larger transportation network; and b) problems that focus on the operations of the facility (Boysen and Fliedner 2010). In this thesis, the latter type of problem is considered, and two truck scheduling models with handling time as a variable are proposed. In the first model, Just-in-time scheduling with a time window to evaluate the operation process is used. A memetic algorithm and a number of computational examples to show the advantage are also developed. In the second model, the total service time of trucks and the temporary storage time inside the facility are minimized using the function of handling time. A multi-objective memetic algorithm is proposed to solve this model. Finally, the limits of current models and the direction of future works are described.

Sandy Melhorn - Method for Prioritzing Highway Routes for Reconstruction After a Natural Disaster

Abstract:The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has identified the four phases of disaster related planning as mitigation, preparation, response and recovery. Considerable emphasis has been placed on evacuation plans and first response after a disaster. However, research is lacking in the recovery phase. The recovery phase is characterized by activity to return life to normal or improved levels. FEMA defines recovery as the restoration of transportation components to their condition prior to the event. This research considers the recovery phase, which encompasses restoring services and rebuilding disaster stricken areas of the highway transportation network. It is assumed that evacuation, minor repairs/cleanup for emergency personnel and delivery of supplies has already been accomplished in the response phase. The purpose of this research is to provide criteria for prioritizing the reconstruction of highway networks. This is accomplished through the use of a mathematical model. This model provides a method for state and local transportation agencies or planners to develop a specific plan for reconstructing roadways for long term use. The model developed in this research provides a framework for decision-making for long-term recovery of highway networks. The model can be used for planning or after a disaster has occurred. This research is different from previous research in that actual paths are chosen for reconstruction.

In Progress

Jeffrey Karafa - Evaluation of the Effect of Gate Strategies in Drayage Related Emissions

Abstract: Intermodal Marine Container Terminals are experiencing consistent growth in container volumes. Forecasts are that freight volumes will continue to increase and result in substantial increases in roadway congestion. This in turn will result in an increase of emissions produced by trucks that have been linked to health conditions including asthma, cancer and heart disease. In this project, a simulation platform will be developed to model the effect of different gate strategies to the reduction of drayage truck related emissions.

Kwabena Anafi - Bridging the Gap Between the Public and Private Sectors with regards to Transportation Related Facilities Utilizing the Concept of Public-Private Partnerships

Abstract: In the prevailing economic times, cash flow for government agencies is becoming increasing difficult to come by, as such governmental agencies are unable to build, operate and maintain transportation facilities. In a bid to counter this unfortunate situation, there has been a concerted effort to engage the private sector in the financing and management of public infrastructure. This has led to an increase in public-private partnerships or PPPs. Thus the purpose of this dissertation is to find an innovative way in which this would be possible utilizing the requisite tools such as models, case-studies and research already completed.

Najmeh Jami - Impacts of LED Traffic Signal Retrofits on Instersection Safety

Abstract: High amount of retrofitting traffic signals with light emitting diode (LED) bulbs have been occurred nationwide due to the incredible energy saving comparing to the traditional one. Using before and after crash analysis, a study is currently underway to evaluate the safety implications of the change to LED technology in traffic signals in Memphis, Tennessee, where 56 full LED conversions and 712 partial conversions (red and green only) of signalized intersections have occurred since 2000.