In this column, we keep you abreast of some of the new features and enhancements we have added to the EMME/2 system since the last issue of EMME/2 NEWS. All items listed this time are direct consequences of suggestions made by users. So, if you have a great idea on how to improve this or that module of EMME/2, please drop us a line!
Ever since the introduction of the macros with release 2.0 they have been used heavily for all kind of applications. The only serious limitation that restricted the use of macros --they could not be used across module boundaries-- has now been lifted. Macros can now be used freely chaining several modules. The Winnipeg demonstration data set that comes with each software release now even includes a macro buildwpg which builds up from scratch the complete Winnipeg demonstration data base, including auto and transit assignments.
Automatic calculation of the link length, using the '*' notation, is now also available on batch entry (module 2.11). Moreover, there exists now a coordinate conversion factor that controls the conversion of coordinate units to length. Thus, the coordinate system used for geo-coding the nodes needs no longer be based on the same unit as is used for measuring distances. The coordinate conversion factor, 1 by default, may be modified using module 1.23.
A new option, "modify functions", has been added to module 4.12. This allows the user to redefine one or several functions interactively. The old function is displayed before the user is prompted to redefine it.
In module 6.14, "Plot Auto Volumes on Intersections", the volumes may now be displayed either as proportional bars, as numeric values, or both.
In the auto assignment procedures, modules 5.11 and 5.21, we are working on a new feature that will allow the user to compute, along with the usual assignment results, a user defined "cost" matrix. The matrix can contain one additional measure (cost, distance, road and bridge tolls, energy consumption, use of specific links, etc.) that is defined in the form of a link cost function which has the same parameters as a volume-delay function. Note that the choice of this "cost" function does not influence the other assignment results (volumes, times), it merely accounts for the "cost" measure during the assignment process.