SMART projects

SMART is engaged in a series of research projects with government and industry to deliver real-life integrated infrastructure solutions.

Some of these projects are:

• Integrated infrastructure planning analytical tools
• Rail modelling and simulation
• Real time infrastructure resilience monitoring
• Comparative public transport patronage analysis

Integrated infrastructure planning analytical tool

SMART is collaborating with Transport NSW to deliver new insights into the complex interplay between transport infrastructure, land use and liveability. This research project will examine the simulation of a city precinct with different scenarios concerning population density, impact of congestion and how environmental contexts can influence transport modal choices.

In particularly, the project will examine liveability issues such as income levels, access to shopping facilities, transport access, housing availability and access to education and recreational facilities. The project will pay special attention to the impact that these liveability factors have on population growth and preferred transport options.

The project will deliver decision makers a much better understanding of where possible tipping points occur when people choose to switch from using private motor vehicles to public transport. This analysis will help to inform governments about the composition and timing of new transport infrastructure in Sydney.

The project is led by Professor Peter Campbell, who is the former Director, Advanced Computer Applications at the Argonne National Laboratory in Chicago.

Media release NSW Government partners SMART in ground-breaking research.

Rail modelling and simulation

SMART is working with a national freight business organisation to develop modelling solutions to improve the organisation’s fleet efficiency.

The project will deliver a graphical simulation model to illustrate several different ‘what if’ scheduling and operating scenarios.  The model will include an animated, visual output to show the operation of the network. The graphics capability of the model will include ‘zoom in’ and zoom-out animation which can provide a visual illustration of, for example, the build-up of queues, stockpiles, breakdowns, different scheduling scenarios and throughputs.

Real time infrastructure resilience monitoring

SMART in conjunction with the Faculty of Engineering has real time landslide monitoring systems in place nationally. The systems monitor landslide areas, important infrastructure assets and weather conditions. 

The systems provide authorities with real-time awareness of small movements which may potentially develop into larger displacements.This can help prevent serious accidents and potential loss of life. SMART is currently expanding its research in this area. Read more.

Comparative public transport patronage analysis

SMART is undertaking strategic research concerning global lessons and opportunities from cities that have achieved transformational growth in public transport patronage. 

While European style metro systems are seen as attractive for Australian cities, such a costly investment will only be possible if they can achieve profound changes in transport modal

This project takes a particular interest in how successful cities were able to achieve better integrated multi-modal solutions, design of governance models and cultural change issues associated with consolidating disparate public transport entities into a single coherent authority.