A context-based geoprocessing framework for optimizing meetup location
  of multiple moving objects along road networks
  Given different types of constraints on human life, people must make
decisions that satisfy social activity needs. Minimizing costs (i.e., distance,
time, or money) associated with travel plays an important role in perceived and
realized social quality of life. Identifying optimal interaction locations on
road networks when there are multiple moving objects (MMO) with space-time
constraints remains a challenge. In this research, we formalize the problem of
finding dynamic ideal interaction locations for MMO as a spatial optimization
model and introduce a context-based geoprocessing heuristic framework to
address this problem. As a proof of concept, a case study involving
identification of a meetup location for multiple people under traffic
conditions is used to validate the proposed geoprocessing framework. Five
heuristic methods with regard to efficient shortest-path search space have been
tested. We find that the R* tree-based algorithm performs the best with high
quality solutions and low computation time. This framework is implemented in a
GIS environment to facilitate integration with external geographic contextual
information, e.g., temporary road barriers, points of interest (POI), and
real-time traffic information, when dynamically searching for ideal meetup
sites. The proposed method can be applied in trip planning, carpooling
services, collaborative interaction, and logistics management.
