Centralized Hub‐Terminal Geometric Concepts. II: Baggage and Extensions

Abstract

This paper shows how the geometric concepts examined in the first paper perform for baggage operations, recognizing that passengers and bags travel different distances through the airport. The paper shows that the most effective geometry (minimizing total passenger walking plus baggage travel costs) can be selected by focusing on passenger walking alone, provided that one first calculates an equivalent percentage of transfers with a simple formula. The paper also introduces a “sun” terminal concept, consisting of a circular concourse (open or closed) with both gates and piers (possibly with branches), which generalizes the geometries of part one to some advantage. Finally, the paper introduces and compares the results of two techniques that are useful for more refined analyses. The first of these, calculus of variations, was used to develop simple approximate formulas for the optimal shape of parallel‐pier terminals. The second technique, simulated annealing, does not lead to formulas but can be used without simplifications; e.g., to refine a preliminary design with the aid of a computer, recognizing real‐world complications.