Transport mode definition

The individual coordinates for a user are connected with a so-called linestring before an adjusted OSRM (open streets route mapping) algorithm maps the coordinates to define the most probable route. 

In between individual trips are stops (visits). For each linestring connecting two stops, a complex transport mode detection algorithm takes into account all metadata for the individual coordinates of the linestring (such as the time in between two coordinates and the distance travelled), the total distance travelled of the trip, the time it took, the mapped route for the OSRM-linestring result, meta data of the street segment (e.g. a one-way street) amongst other data in order to evaluate the probable transport mode.

Intuitive results as shown in the graphs illustrate where specific transport modes’ traffic can be found (e.g. no bikes or pedestrians on highways, less footfall traffic at specific moments etc).

Results are also processed as “dominant transport modes” for different locations, once again showing intuitive results with mostly foot traffic vs car traffic depending on the specific location.

Besides traffic on foot, by bike, in a vehicle (car or bus) also train usage can be understood. Given home & work locations are known, a distinction can be made between usage for a commute or other movements (e.g. to a supermarket).