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Investigating the Effectiveness of the Least-Angle Strategy for Wayfinding in Unknown Street Networks

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  • Hartwig H Hochmair

    (Department of Geography, St Cloud State University, 720 Fourth Avenue South, St Cloud, MN 56301, USA)

Abstract

In this paper the wayfinding criterion always to ‘proceed in the direction of the target’, which is the core of the least-angle strategy, is examined. Although human route-selection behavior is much more complex than this, results of empirical studies presented in the literature suggest that preference for most direct direction plays an important role in human route choice within street networks. The least-angle strategy can be applied once the navigator knows the direction of the destination, and is therefore an appropriate temporary heuristic for situations where the navigator lacks more detailed information about the environment. To assess the effectiveness of the least-angle strategy in urban environments, an agent simulation has been performed on the urban street networks of two cities for three different modes of transportation—pedestrian, bicycle, and car. The results of the simulation are analyzed.

Suggested Citation

  • Hartwig H Hochmair, 2005. "Investigating the Effectiveness of the Least-Angle Strategy for Wayfinding in Unknown Street Networks," Environment and Planning B, , vol. 32(5), pages 673-691, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envirb:v:32:y:2005:i:5:p:673-691
    DOI: 10.1068/b31160
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Golledge, Reginald G., 1995. "Path Selection and Route Preference in Human Navigation: A Progress Report," University of California Transportation Center, Working Papers qt9jn5r27v, University of California Transportation Center.
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