A novel truck park differentiation model based on rest time regulations and parking periods

This research focuses on a new facility model for truck parking areas with two new types of parking areas that are tailored to the duration of parking activities in compliance with work and rest time regulations. According to an analysis of related regulations, parking activities could be categorized as short breaks and long rests, with varying requirements for each parking activity. Currently, parking requests are fulfilled within the same "universal type" facility, resulting in inefficient capacity utilization. In this context, Short and Long Park Differentiation (SLPD) Model is proposed as an alternative model in which Long Park is only serving for long rest requests and Short Park is only for short break requests. The advantages of new models in terms of efficiency are tried to be presented by a mathematical model and Monte Carlo Simulation. The goal of a mathematical model is to maximize overall profit while minimizing opportunity and operating costs. Then, a simulation model is applied to compare the capacity utilization ratios and the number of unmet parking requests in a variety of scenarios that include varying levels of parking demand conveyed to both existing and proposed types of park spaces with the same total parking lot capacity. The study also points to the fact that the extra facilities offered in universal park areas of which the target group is long rest customers is a costly practice since a significant part of the capacity of parking areas are used by vehicles having a short break. Keywords: Park area planning, resource allocation, mathematical modelling, Monte-Carlo simulation, international road transportation, road safety, driving ergonomics