Parksim/1: data presentation and evaluation

Computer-aided design (CAD) systems are used for the automatic production and alteration of detailed plans and designs. PARKSIM/1 presents the opportunity to specify parking networks through computer graphics routines. It then replicates vehicle movements through these networks using a simulation model. These aspects have been discussed previously. An equally important part of a CAD system is the investigation of the performance of the system. This paper describes the procedures available for evaluating the performance of the parking system developed and simulated in PARKSIM/1. These procedures enable the analyst to take a detailed look at the 'level of service' offered by the parking network, the spatial distribution of traffic activities and dynamic displays of vehicle movements in the system. These measures allow the analyst to compare the performance of various networks and determine the appropriate one. The paper closes with some general comments on future directions of the CAD system.