Comparison of PARAMICS and GETRAM/AIMSUN Microscopic Traffic Simulation Tools

PARAMICS and GETRAM/AIMSUN are two microscopic traffic simulation tools that are capable of modelling the functions of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) in a large network. This paper compares the Version 4.0 of PARAMICS with Version 4.0 of GETRAM/AIMSUN, based on the experience gained in using them to model a network with a freeway and arterials. The simulation tools were compared in six aspects: user interface, network modelling capabilities, traffic behaviour, statistical output, run-time performance and other advanced features. Between the two software packages, GETRAM/AIMSUN has shown its strength in the ease of network coding, modelling bus transit systems, and basic functions in freeway traffic management system. On the other hand, PARAMICS has advantage over GETRAM/AIMSUN in its visually realistic graphical animation, better integration of the different functional modules, and offers a much more comprehensive Application Programmer Interface (API) for modelling of advanced and emerging ITS functions. TRB 2004 Annual Meeting CD-ROM Paper revised from original submittal.