A multi-paradigm approach to system dynamics modeling of intercity transportation

• Both micro- and macro-level views are essential for complex systems research.
• A classification is formulated to guide efforts in integrating both views.
• A new hybrid approach is developed for multimodal inter-city travel demand.
• The model is validated and replicates historical trend of aviation demand.
• Demand sensitivity to socioeconomics match showing the congruity of ABM and SD.

The complexity of the transportation system calls for a holistic solution approach that employs multiple modeling paradigms such as agent-based modeling and system dynamics. Various techniques for combining these paradigms are explored and logically classified, which helps guide hybrid modeling. A system dynamics model for multimodal intercity transportation is created, which integrates socioeconomic factors, mode performance, aggregated demand and capacity. The model is calibrated against a set of data points from an existing agent-based model. An effective inheritance of the proven predictive power of the agent-based model is demonstrated by reproducing the historic aviation demand with sufficient accuracy.