A Review of Existing Urban Models in the World with emphasis on Theory, Function and Applications

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The purpose of the present study is to investigate on state-of the-art operational urban models in the world with emphasis on land use simulation sub-models. In this review works, it is intended to identify emerging issues in urban model developments by comparing the theory on which a model is based, the functions which a model has, and the actual cases to which a model is applied.At first, real metropolitan planning cases in which land use and transport are substantially integrated is reviewed in relation to the application of urban models in the planning process. Secondly, state-of the-art operational urban models are identified with exiting review papers and additional current information. Then, an intensive information collection of selected seven urban models is conducted by interviews and e-mail communications with the developers besides with up-dated papers. Based on the information, models are compared and identified in terms of their relationships by the following items ; model theories, model structures, program languages, computer system, GIS and the data contents, functions, and application cases. Based on the above, transferability of the models to Japan was investigated. In addition, the cost-effectiveness of the introduction of an operational urban model to actual metropolitan planning in Japan is also discussed. On the other hand, an institutional set-up for a metropolitan area in Japan is designed with reference to the cases in USA, for it is indispensable for an urban model to be applied in the planning process, Finally, graphics outputs are collected to demonstrate the functions of the reviewed models.In concluding of this study, the way how to introduce an urban model in integrated land use and transport planning in a metropolitan area is presented, and the way for the further developments are identified.