Ongoing Projects
Machine Learning and Combinatorial Optimization
Classic combinatorial optimization problems can be solved exactly using column generation and branch-and-price techniques. However, the computational bottleneck often lies in the subproblem, which is typically NP-hard and frequently approximated with heuristics. We are wroking on frameworks that integrate machine learning to learn key elements of the pricing problem, accelerating the solution process while maintaining the exactness of the overall framework.
Electric Vehicle Scheduling Problems
Electric bus fleets are rapidly expanding in numbers, and this necessitates re-optimization of bus to trip assignments. Creating a tight schedule for buses would result in higher utilization, but the energy needs of the itinerary may exceed the range of the bus, requiring it to charge in between. In this context, our group is interested in finding scalable solutions for assignment, integrating renewables and crew scheduling, and modeling the effect of delays.
Driving Simulator Experiments
Many behavioral experiments related to driving are difficult to conduct in the field. Hence, lab-based simulators using 3D modeling tools and gaming engines such as Unity/Unreal are often used to replicate real-world conditions. We have built such platforms using VISSIM and CARLA to study how people search for parking. We are working on examining the effect of parking prices or information on parking search.
Large-Scale Transit Routing and Assignment
Public transit plays a central role in meeting mobility needs in megacities around the world. We are interested in simulating routing decisions at the agent level and using these simulations to build ridership prediction models. We are also working to extend this framework to support better allocation decisions across heterogeneous fleets with varying capacities for different types of trips.
Smart Parking Solutions
Our group researches on smart parking solutions that involve automated lot designs, electrification decision optimization of parking lots and operations, and airport parking management problems.