PTV Vissim 10 User Manual

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PTV VISSIM 10
USER MANUAL

Copyright and legal agreements
Copyright
© 2018 PTV AG, Karlsruhe, Germany
All brand or product names in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of the
corresponding companies or organizations. All rights reserved.
Legal agreements
The information contained in this documentation is subject to change without notice and
should not be construed as a commitment on the part of PTV AG.
Without the prior written permission of PTV AG, this documentation may neither be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, nor transmitted in any form or by any means,
electronically, mechanically, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, except for the buyer's
personal use.
Warranty restriction
The content accuracy is not warranted. Any information regarding mistakes in this manual is
greatly appreciated.
Imprint
PTV AG
Haid-und-Neu-Str. 15
76131 Karlsruhe
Germany
Phone +49 721 9651-300
info@vision.ptvgroup.com
www.ptvgroup.com
vision-traffic.ptvgroup.com

Last amended: 22.02.2018 EN

Contents
Copyright and legal agreements

Important changes compared to previous versions

Quick start: creating a network and starting simulation

Typography and conventions

1 Introduction
1.1 Simulation of pedestrians with PTV Viswalk
1.2 PTV Vissim use cases
1.3 Traffic flow model and light signal control
1.3.1 Operating principles of the car following model
1.4 How to install and start PTV Vissim
1.4.1 Information on installation and deinstallation
1.4.2 Content of the PTV Vision program group
1.4.3 Specifying the behavior of the right mouse button when starting the program for
the first time
1.4.4 Agreeing to share diagnostics and usage data
1.5 Technical information and requirements
1.5.1 Criteria for simulation speed
1.5.2 Main memory recommended
1.5.3 Graphics card requirements
1.5.4 Interfaces
1.5.5 Number of characters of filename and path
1.6 Overview of add-on modules
1.6.1 General modules
1.6.2 Signal controllers: Complete procedures
1.6.3 Signal control: Interfaces
1.6.4 Programming interfaces
1.7 Using a demo version
1.8 Using PTV Vissim Viewer
1.8.1 Limitations of the Vissim Viewer
1.8.2 Vissim Viewer installation and update
1.9 Using the PTV Vissim Simulation Engine
1.10 Using files with examples
1.10.1 Opening the Examples Demo folder
1.10.2 Opening the Examples Training folder
1.11 Opening the Working directory
1.11.1 Opening the working directory from the Windows Explorer
1.12 Documents
1.12.1 Showing the user manual
1.12.2 Showing the PTV Vissim Help
1.12.3 Additional documentation

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1.13 Service and support
1.13.1 Using the manual, Help and FAQ list
1.13.2 Services by the PTV GROUP
1.13.3 Posting a support request
1.13.4 Requests to the Traffic customer service
1.13.5 Showing program and license information
1.13.6 Managing licenses
1.13.7 Information about the PTV GROUP and contact data

2 Principles of operation of the program
2.1 Program start and start screen
2.2 Starting PTV Vissim via the command prompt
2.3 Using the Start page
2.4 Becoming familiar with the user interface
2.5 Using the Network object toolbar
2.5.1 Context menu in the network object toolbar
2.6 Using the Level toolbar
2.7 Using the background image toolbar
2.8 Using the Quick View
2.8.1 Showing the Quick View
2.8.2 Selecting attributes for the Quick view display
2.8.3 Editing attribute values in the Quick view
2.8.4 Editing attribute values in the Quick view with arithmetic operations
2.9 Using the Smart Map
2.9.1 Displaying the Smart Map
2.9.2 Displaying the entire network in the Smart Map
2.9.3 Moving the Network Editor view
2.9.4 Showing all Smart Map sections
2.9.5 Zooming in or out on the network in the Smart Map
2.9.6 Redefining the display in the Smart Map
2.9.7 Defining a Smart Map view in a new Network Editor
2.9.8 Moving the Smart Map view
2.9.9 Copying the layout of a Network Editor into Smart Map
2.9.10 Displaying or hiding live map for the Smart Map
2.10 Using network editors
2.10.1 Showing Network editors
2.10.2 Network editor toolbar
2.10.3 Network editor context menu
2.10.4 Zooming in
2.10.5 Zooming out
2.10.6 Displaying the entire network
2.10.7 Moving the view
2.10.8 Defining a new view

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2.10.9 Displaying previous or next sections
2.10.10 Zooming to network objects in the network editor
2.10.11 Selecting network objects in the Network editor and showing them in a list
2.10.12 Using named Network editor layouts
2.11 Selecting simple network display
2.12 Using the Quick Mode
2.13 Changing the display of windows
2.13.1 Showing program elements together
2.13.2 Arranging or freely positioning program elements in PTV Vissim
2.13.3 Anchoring windows
2.13.4 Releasing windows from the anchors
2.13.5 Restoring the display of windows
2.13.6 Switching between windows
2.14 Using lists
2.14.1 Structure of lists
2.14.2 Opening lists
2.14.3 Selecting network objects in the Network editor and showing them in a list
2.14.4 List toolbar
2.14.5 Selecting and editing data in lists
2.14.6 Editing lists and data via the context menu
2.14.7 Selecting cells in lists
2.14.8 Sorting lists
2.14.9 Deleting data in lists
2.14.10 Moving column in list
2.14.11 Using named list layouts
2.14.12 Selecting attributes and subattributes for a list
2.14.13 Setting a filter for selection of subattributes displayed
2.14.14 Using coupled lists
2.15 Using the Menu bar
2.15.1 Overview of menus
2.15.2 Editing menus
2.16 Using toolbars
2.16.1 Overview of toolbars
2.16.2 Adapting the toolbar
2.17 Mouse functions and key combinations
2.17.1 Using the mouse buttons, scroll wheel and Del key
2.17.2 Using key combinations
2.17.3 Customizing key combinations
2.17.4 Resetting menus, toolbars, shortcuts, and dialog positions
2.18 Saving and importing a layout of the user interface
2.18.1 Saving the user interface layout
2.18.2 Importing the saved user interface layout
2.19 Information in the status bar

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2.19.1 Specifying the simulation time format for the status bar
2.19.2 Switching the simulation time format for the status bar
2.20 Selecting decimal separator via the control panel

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3 Setting user preferences

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3.1 Selecting the language of the user interface
3.2 Selecting the country for regional information on the start page
3.3 Selecting a compression program
3.4 Selecting the 3D mode and 3D recording settings
3.5 Right-click behavior and action after creating an object
3.6 Showing and hiding object information in the Network editor
3.7 Configuring command history
3.8 Specifying automatic saving of the layout file *.layx
3.9 Defining click behavior for the activation of detectors in test mode
3.10 Checking and selecting the network with simulation start
3.11 Resetting menus, toolbars, shortcuts, and dialog positions
3.12 Showing short or long names of attributes in column headers
3.13 Defining default values
3.14 Allowing the collection of usage data

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4 Using 2D mode and 3D mode

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4.1 Calling the 2D mode from the 3D mode
4.2 Selecting display options
4.2.1 Editing graphic parameters for network objects
4.2.2 List of graphic parameters for network objects
4.2.3 Editing base graphic parameters for a network editor
4.2.4 List of base graphic parameters for network editors
4.2.5 Using textures
4.2.6 Defining colors for vehicles and pedestrians
4.2.7 Assigning a color to links based on aggregated parameters
4.2.8 Assigning a color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)
4.2.9 Assigning a color to ramps and stairs based on aggregated parameters (LOS)
4.2.10 Assigning a color to nodes based on an attribute
4.3 Using 3D mode and specifying the display
4.3.1 Calling the 3D mode from the 2D mode
4.3.2 Navigating in 3D mode in the network
4.3.3 Editing 3D graphic parameters
4.3.4 List of 3D graphic parameters
4.3.5 Flight over the network
4.3.6 Showing 3D perspective of a driver or a pedestrian
4.3.7 Changing the 3D viewing angle (focal length)
4.3.8 Displaying vehicles and pedestrians in the 3D mode
4.3.9 3D animation of PT vehicle doors
4.3.10 Using fog in the 3D mode

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5 Base data for simulation
5.1 Selecting network settings
5.1.1 Selecting network settings for vehicle behavior
5.1.2 Selecting network settings for pedestrian behavior
5.1.3 Selecting network settings for units
5.1.4 Selecting network settings for attribute concatenation
5.1.5 Selecting network settings for 3D signal heads
5.1.6 Network settings for standard types of elevators and elevator groups
5.1.7 Network settings for standard type of direction change duration distribution
5.1.8 Showing reference points
5.1.9 Selecting angle towards north
5.1.10 Network settings for the driving simulator
5.2 Using user-defined attributes
5.2.1 Creating user-defined attributes
5.2.2 Editing user-defined attribute values
5.3 Using aliases for attribute names
5.3.1 Defining aliases
5.3.2 Editing aliases in the Attribute selection list
5.4 Using 2D/3D models
5.4.1 Defining 2D/3D models
5.4.2 Assigning model segments to 2D/3D models
5.4.3 Attributes of 2D/3D model segments
5.4.4 Defining doors for public transport vehicles
5.4.5 Editing doors of public transport vehicles
5.5 Defining acceleration and deceleration behavior
5.5.1 Default curves for maximum acceleration and deceleration
5.5.2 Stochastic distribution of values for maximum acceleration and deceleration
5.5.3 Defining acceleration and deceleration functions
5.5.4 Attributes of acceleration and deceleration functions
5.5.5 Deleting the acceleration/deceleration function
5.6 Using distributions
5.6.1 Using desired speed distributions
5.6.2 Using power distributions
5.6.3 Using weight distributions
5.6.4 Using time distributions
5.6.5 Using location distributions for boarding and alighting passengers in PT
5.6.6 Using distance distributions
5.6.7 Using occupation distributions
5.6.8 Using 2D/3D model distributions
5.6.9 Using color distributions
5.6.10 Editing the graph of a function or distribution
5.6.11 Deleting intermediate point of a graph

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5.7 Managing vehicle types, vehicle classes and vehicle categories
5.7.1 Using vehicle types
5.7.2 Using vehicle categories
5.7.3 Using vehicle classes
5.8 Defining driving behavior parameter sets
5.8.1 Driving states in the traffic flow model according to Wiedemann
5.8.2 Editing the driving behavior parameter Following behavior
5.8.3 Applications and driving behavior parameters of lane changing
5.8.4 Editing the driving behavior parameter Lateral behavior
5.8.5 Editing the driving behavior parameter Signal Control
5.8.6 Editing the driving behavior parameter Meso
5.9 Defining link behavior types for links and connectors
5.10 Defining display types
5.11 Defining track properties
5.12 Defining levels
5.13 Using time intervals
5.13.1 Defining time intervals for a network object type
5.13.2 Calling time intervals from an attributes list
5.14 Toll pricing and defining managed lanes
5.14.1 Defining managed lane facilities
5.14.2 Defining toll pricing calculation models

6 Creating and editing a network
6.1 Setting up a road network or PT link network
6.1.1 Example for a simple network
6.1.2 Traffic network data
6.1.3 Evaluating vehicular parameters from the network
6.2 Copying and pasting network objects into the Network Editor
6.2.1 Selecting and copying network objects
6.2.2 Pasting network objects from the Clipboard
6.2.3 Copying network objects to different level
6.2.4 Saving a selected part of the network
6.3 Editing network objects, attributes and attribute values
6.3.1 Inserting a new network object in a Network Editor
6.3.2 Editing attributes of network objects
6.3.3 Showing attribute values of a network object in the Network editor
6.3.4 Direct and indirect attributes
6.3.5 Duplicating network objects
6.3.6 Moving network objects in the Network Editor
6.3.7 Moving network object sections
6.3.8 Calling up network object specific functions in the network editor
6.3.9 Rotating network objects
6.3.10 Deleting network objects

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6.4 Displaying and selecting network objects
6.4.1 Moving network objects in the Network Editor
6.4.2 Selecting network objects in the Network editor and showing them in a list
6.4.3 Showing the names of the network objects at the click position
6.4.4 Zooming to network objects in the network editor
6.4.5 Selecting a network object from superimposed network objects
6.4.6 Viewing and positioning label of a network object
6.4.7 Resetting the label position
6.5 Importing a network
6.5.1 Reading a network additionally
6.5.2 Importing ANM data
6.5.3 Selecting ANM file, configuring and starting data import
6.5.4 Adaptive import of ANM data
6.5.5 Generated network objects from the ANM import
6.5.6 Importing data from the add-on module Synchro 7
6.5.7 Adaptive import process for abstract network models
6.5.8 Importing Synchro 7 network adaptively
6.6 Exporting data
6.6.1 Exporting nodes and edges for visualization in Visum
6.6.2 Exporting nodes and edges for assignment in Visum
6.6.3 Exporting PT stops and PT lines for Visum
6.6.4 Exporting static network data for 3ds Max
6.7 Rotating the network
6.8 Moving the network
6.9 Inserting a background image
6.9.1 Using live maps from the Internet
6.9.2 Using background images
6.10 Modeling the road network
6.10.1 Modeling links for vehicles and pedestrians
6.10.2 Modeling connectors
6.10.3 Editing points in links or connectors
6.10.4 Changing the desired speed
6.10.5 Modeling pavement markings
6.10.6 Defining data collection points
6.10.7 Defining vehicle travel time measurement
6.10.8 Attributes of vehicle travel time measurement
6.10.9 Modeling queue counters
6.11 Modeling vehicular traffic
6.11.1 Modeling vehicle compositions
6.11.2 Modeling vehicle inputs for private transportation
6.11.3 Modeling vehicle routes, partial vehicle routes, and routing decisions
6.11.4 Modeling parking lots
6.11.5 Modeling overtaking maneuvers on the lane of oncoming traffic

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6.12 Modeling short-range public transportation
6.12.1 Modeling PT stops
6.12.2 Defining PT stops
6.12.3 Attributes of PT stops
6.12.4 Generating platform edges
6.12.5 Generating a public transport stop bay
6.12.6 Modeling PT lines
6.12.7 Entering a public transport stop bay in a PT line path
6.12.8 Editing a PT line stop
6.12.9 Calculating the public transport dwell time for PT lines and partial PT routes
6.12.10 Defining partial PT routes
6.12.11 Attributes of PT partial routing decisions
6.12.12 Attributes of partial PT routes
6.13 Modeling right-of-way without SC
6.13.1 Modeling priority rules
6.13.2 Modeling conflict areas
6.13.3 Modeling stop signs and toll counters
6.13.4 Merging lanes and lane reduction
6.14 Modeling signal controllers
6.14.1 Modeling signal groups and signal heads
6.14.2 Modeling 3D signal heads
6.14.3 Using detectors
6.14.4 Using signal control procedures
6.14.5 Opening and using the SC Editor
6.14.6 Linking SC
6.14.7 Modeling railroad block signals
6.15 Using static 3D models
6.15.1 Defining static 3D models
6.15.2 Attributes of static 3D models
6.15.3 Editing static 3D models in the Network Editor
6.16 Modeling sections
6.16.1 Defining sections as a rectangle
6.16.2 Defining sections as a polygon
6.16.3 Attributes of sections
6.17 Visualizing turn values
6.17.1 Configuring turn value visualization
6.17.2 Activate turn value visualization
6.17.3 Editing the size of turn value visualization for a node
6.17.4 Setting active turn value diagrams to the same size

7 Using the dynamic assignment add-on module
7.1 Quick start dynamic assignment
7.2 Differences between static and dynamic assignment

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7.3 Base for calculating the dynamic assignment
7.4 Flow diagram dynamic assignment
7.5 Building an Abstract Network Graph
7.5.1 Modeling parking lots and zones
7.5.2 Modeling nodes
7.5.3 Editing edges
7.6 Modeling traffic demand with origin-destination matrices or trip chain files
7.6.1 Modeling traffic demand with origin-destination matrices
7.6.2 Defining an origin-destination matrix
7.6.3 Selecting an origin-destination matrix
7.6.4 Matrix attributes
7.6.5 Editing OD matrices for vehicular traffic in the Matrix editor
7.6.6 Using OD matrices from previous versions
7.6.7 Modeling traffic demand with trip chain files
7.6.8 Selecting a trip chain file
7.6.9 Structure of the trip chain file *.fkt
7.7 Simulated travel time and generalized costs
7.7.1 Evaluation interval duration needed to determine the travel times
7.7.2 Defining simulated travel times
7.7.3 Selecting exponential smoothing of the travel times
7.7.4 Selecting the MSA method for travel times
7.7.5 General cost, travel distances and financial cost in the path selection
7.8 Path search and path selection
7.8.1 Calculation of paths and costs
7.8.2 Path search finds only the best possible path in each interval
7.8.3 Method of path selection with or without path search
7.8.4 Equilibrium assignment – Example
7.8.5 Performing an alternative path search
7.8.6 Displaying paths in the network
7.8.7 Attributes of paths
7.9 Optional expansion for the dynamic assignment
7.9.1 Defining simultaneous assignment
7.9.2 Defining the destination parking lot selection
7.9.3 Using the detour factor to avoid detours
7.9.4 Correcting distorted demand distribution for overlapping paths
7.9.5 Defining dynamic routing decisions
7.9.6 Attributes of dynamic routing decisions
7.9.7 Defining route guidance for vehicles
7.10 Visualizing volumes on paths as flow bundles
7.10.1 Defining flow bundles and filter cross sections
7.10.2 Flow bundle attributes
7.10.3 Show flow bundle bars
7.11 Controlling dynamic assignment

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7.11.1 Attributes for the trip chain file, matrices, path file and cost file
7.11.2 Attributes for calculating costs as a basis for path selection
7.11.3 Attributes for path search
7.11.4 Attributes for path selection
7.11.5 Attributes for achieving convergence
7.11.6 Checking the convergence in the evaluation file
7.11.7 Showing converged paths and paths that are not converged
7.11.8 Attributes for the guidance of vehicles
7.11.9 Controlling iterations of the simulation
7.11.10 Setting volume for paths manually
7.11.11 Influencing the path search by using cost surcharges or blocks
7.11.12 Evaluating costs and assigned traffic of paths
7.12 Correcting demand matrices
7.12.1 Defining and performing Matrix correction
7.13 Generating static routes from assignment
7.14 Using an assignment from Visum for dynamic assignment
7.14.1 Calculating a Visum assignment automatically
7.14.2 Stepwise Visum assignment calculation

8 Using add-on module for mesoscopic simulation
8.1 Quick start guide mesoscopic simulation
8.2 Car following model for mesoscopic simulation
8.2.1 Car following model for the meso speed model Link-based
8.2.2 Car following model for the meso speed model Vehicle-based
8.2.3 Additional bases of calculation
8.3 Mesoscopic node-edge model
8.3.1 Properties and nodes of the meso graph
8.3.2 Differences between meso network nodes and meso nodes
8.3.3 Meso edges in meso graphs
8.3.4 Changes to the network will delete the meso graph
8.4 Node control in mesoscopic simulation
8.5 Modeling meso network nodes
8.6 Rules and examples for defining meso network nodes
8.6.1 Rules for defining meso network nodes
8.6.2 Examples of applying the rules for defining meso network nodes
8.7 Defining meso network nodes
8.8 Attributes of meso nodes
8.9 Attributes of meso edges
8.10 Attributes of meso turns
8.11 Attributes of meso turn conflicts
8.12 Generating meso graphs
8.13 Hybrid simulation
8.14 Selecting sections for hybrid simulation

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8.15 Limitations of mesoscopic simulation

9 Running a simulation
9.1 Selecting simulation method micro or meso
9.2 Defining simulation parameters
9.2.1 Special effect of simulation resolution on pedestrian simulation
9.3 Selecting the number of simulation runs and starting simulation
9.4 Showing simulation run data in lists
9.5 Displaying vehicles in the network in a list
9.6 Showing pedestrians in the network in a list
9.7 Reading one or multiple simulation runs additionally
9.7.1 Reading a simulation run additionally
9.7.2 Reading simulation runs additionally
9.8 Checking the network

10 Pedestrian simulation
10.1 Movement of pedestrians in the social force model
10.2 Version-specific functions of pedestrian simulation
10.3 Modeling examples and differences of the pedestrian models
10.3.1 Modeling examples: Quickest or shortest path?
10.3.2 Main differences between the Wiedemann and the Helbing approaches
10.4 Internal procedure of pedestrian simulation
10.4.1 Requirements for pedestrian simulation
10.4.2 Inputs, routing decisions and routes guide pedestrians
10.5 Parameters for pedestrian simulation
10.5.1 Defining model parameters per pedestrian type according to the social force
model
10.5.2 Defining global model parameters
10.5.3 Using desired speed distributions for pedestrians
10.6 Network objects and base data for the simulation of pedestrians
10.6.1 Displaying only network object types for pedestrians
10.6.2 Base data
10.6.3 Base data in the Traffic menu
10.7 Using pedestrian types
10.7.1 Defining pedestrian types
10.7.2 Attributes of pedestrian types
10.8 Using pedestrian classes
10.8.1 Defining pedestrian classes
10.8.2 Attributes of pedestrian classes
10.9 Modeling construction elements
10.9.1 Areas, Ramps & Stairs
10.9.2 Escalators and moving walkways
10.9.3 Obstacles
10.9.4 Deleting construction elements

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10.9.5 Importing walkable areas and obstacles from AutoCAD
10.9.6 Importing Building Information Model files
10.9.7 Defining construction elements as rectangles
10.9.8 Defining construction elements as polygons
10.9.9 Editing construction elements in the Network Editor
10.9.10 Attributes of areas
10.9.11 Attributes of obstacles
10.9.12 Attributes of ramps, stairs, moving walkways and escalators
10.9.13 Modeling length, headroom and ceiling opening
10.9.14 Defining levels
10.10 Modeling links as pedestrian areas
10.10.1 Differences between road traffic and pedestrian flows
10.10.2 Differences between walkable construction elements and link-based pedestrian areas
10.10.3 Modeling obstacles on links
10.10.4 Network objects for pedestrian links
10.10.5 Defining pedestrian links
10.10.6 Modeling interaction between vehicles and pedestrians
10.10.7 Modeling signal controls for pedestrians
10.10.8 Modeling conflict areas for pedestrians
10.10.9 Modeling detectors for pedestrians
10.10.10 Modeling priority rules for pedestrians
10.11 Modeling pedestrian compositions
10.11.1 Defining pedestrian compositions
10.11.2 Attributes of pedestrian compositions
10.12 Modeling area-based walking behavior
10.12.1 Defining walking behavior
10.12.2 Defining area behavior types
10.13 Modeling pedestrian demand and routing of pedestrians
10.13.1 Modeling pedestrian inputs
10.13.2 Modeling routing decisions and routes for pedestrians
10.13.3 Dynamic potential
10.13.4 Pedestrian OD matrices
10.14 Visualizing pedestrian traffic in 2D mode
10.15 Modeling pedestrians as PT passengers
10.15.1 Modeling PT infrastructure
10.15.2 Quick start: defining pedestrians as PT passengers
10.16 Modeling elevators
10.16.1 Walking behavior of pedestrians when using elevators
10.16.2 Defining elevators
10.16.3 Elevator attributes
10.16.4 Elevator door attributes
10.16.5 Defining an elevator group

XVI

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10.16.6 Attributes of elevator groups
10.17 Defining pedestrian travel time measurement

11 Performing evaluations
11.1 Overview of evaluations
11.2 Comparing evaluations of PTV Vissim with evaluations according to HBS
11.3 Performing environmental impact assessments
11.3.1 Simplified method via node evaluation
11.3.2 Precise method with EnViVer Pro or EnViVer Enterprise
11.3.3 The COM interface or API approach with EmissionModel.dll
11.3.4 Noise calculation
11.3.5 Calculation of ambient pollution
11.4 Managing results
11.5 Defining and generating measurements or editing allocated objects
11.5.1 Defining an area measurement in lists
11.5.2 Generating area measurements in lists
11.5.3 Editing sections assigned to area measurements
11.5.4 Defining a data collection measurement in lists
11.5.5 Generating data collection measurements in lists
11.5.6 Editing data collection points assigned to data collection measurements
11.5.7 Defining delay measurement in lists
11.5.8 Generating delay measurements in lists
11.5.9 Editing vehicle and travel time measurements assigned to delay measurements
11.6 Showing results of measurements
11.7 Configuring evaluations of the result attributes for lists
11.7.1 Showing result attributes in result lists
11.7.2 Displaying result attributes in attribute lists
11.8 Configuring evaluations for direct output
11.8.1 Using the Direct output function to save evaluation results to files
11.8.2 Configuring the database connection for evaluations
11.8.3 Saving evaluations in databases
11.9 Showing evaluations in windows
11.10 Importing text file in a database after the simulation
11.11 Output options and results of individual evaluations
11.12 Visualizing evaluation results
11.13 Saving discharge record to a file
11.14 Displaying OD pair data in lists
11.15 Saving lane change data to a file
11.16 Saving vehicle record to a file or database
11.17 Evaluating pedestrian density and speed based on areas
11.18 Grid-based evaluation of pedestrian density and speed
11.19 Output attributes of area and ramp evaluation

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XVII

11.20 Evaluating pedestrian areas with area measurements
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11.21 Evaluating pedestrian travel time measurements
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11.22 Saving pedestrian travel time measurements from OD data to a file
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11.23 Saving pedestrian record to a file or database
993
11.24 Evaluating nodes
997
11.25 Showing meso edges results in lists
1004
11.26 Showing meso lane results in lists
1005
11.27 Saving data about the convergence of the dynamic assignment to a file
1007
11.28 Evaluating SC detector records
1010
11.28.1 Configuring an SC detector record in SC window
1010
11.28.2 Showing a signal control detector record in a window
1012
11.28.3 Results of SC detector evaluation
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11.29 Saving SC green time distribution to a file
1018
11.30 Evaluating signal changes
1021
11.31 Saving managed lane data to a file
1024
11.32 Vehicle network performance : Displaying network performance results
(vehicles) in result lists
1025
11.33 Pedestrian network performance: Displaying network performance results (pedestrians) in lists
1030
11.34 Saving PT waiting time data to a file
1032
11.35 Evaluating data collection measurements
1033
11.36 Evaluating vehicle travel time measurements
1036
11.37 Showing signal times table in a window
1038
11.37.1 Configuring signal times table on SC
1040
11.37.2 Configuring the display settings for a signal times table
1042
11.38 Saving SSAM trajectories to a file
1042
11.39 Showing data from links in lists
1043
11.40 Showing results of queue counters in lists
1045
11.41 Showing delay measurements in lists
1047
11.42 Showing data about paths of dynamic assignment in lists
1049
11.43 Saving vehicle input data to a file
1050

12 Creating charts
12.1 Presenting data
12.1.1 Dimension on the x-axis
12.1.2 Attribute values on the y-axis
12.1.3 Presentation of data during an active simulation
12.2 Creating a chart quick-start guide
12.2.1 Making preselections or selecting all data
12.2.2 Configuring the chart
12.3 Charts toolbar
12.4 Creating charts with or without preselection
12.4.1 Creating charts from a network object type
12.4.2 Creating charts from network objects in the network editor

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12.4.3 Creating charts from data in a list
12.4.4 Creating a chart without preselection
12.5 Configuring a created chart
12.5.1 Configuring the chart type and data
12.5.2 Adjusting how the chart is displayed
12.5.3 Showing a chart area enlarged
12.6 Using named chart layouts
12.6.1 Generating a named chart layout
12.6.2 Assigning a complete chart layout
12.6.3 Assigning only the graphic parameters from a named chart layout
12.6.4 Assigning only the data selection from a named chart layout
12.6.5 Saving a named chart layout
12.6.6 Reading saved named chart layouts additionally
12.6.7 Deleting a named chart layout
12.7 Reusing a chart
12.7.1 Saving a chart in a graphic file
12.7.2 Copying a chart to the clipboard

13 Scenario management
13.1 Quick start scenario management
13.2 Using the project explorer
13.3 Project explorer toolbar
13.4 Editing the project structure
13.4.1 Editing basic settings
13.4.2 Editing scenario properties
13.4.3 Editing modification properties
13.5 Placing a network under scenario management
13.6 Creating a new scenario
13.6.1 Creating a new scenario in the base network
13.7 Creating a new modification
13.7.1 Creating a new modification in the base network
13.8 Opening and editing the base network in the network editor
13.9 Opening and editing scenarios in the network editor
13.10 Opening and editing modifications in the network editor
13.11 Comparing scenarios
13.11.1 Selecting scenarios for comparison
13.11.2 Selecting attributes for scenario comparison
13.12 Comparing and transferring networks
13.12.1 Creating model transfer files
13.12.2 Applying model transfer files

14 Testing logics without traffic flow simulation
14.1 Setting detector types interactively during a test run
14.2 Using macros for test runs

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XIX

14.2.1 Recording a macro
14.2.2 Editing a macro
14.2.3 Run Macro

15 Creating simulation presentations
15.1 Recording a 3D simulation and saving it as an AVI file
15.1.1 Saving camera positions
15.1.2 Attributes of camera positions
15.1.3 Using storyboards and keyframes
15.1.4 Recording settings
15.1.5 Starting AVI recording
15.2 Recording a simulation and saving it as an ANI file
15.2.1 Defining an animation recording
15.2.2 Recording an animation
15.2.3 Running the animation
15.2.4 Displaying values during an animation run

16 Using event based script files
16.1 Use cases for event-based script files
16.2 Impact on network files
16.3 Impact on animations
16.4 Impact on evaluations
16.5 Defining scripts
16.6 Starting a script file manually

17 Runtime messages and troubleshooting
17.1 Editing error messages for an unexpected program state
17.2 Checking the runtime warnings in the file *.err
17.2.1 Runtime warnings during a simulation
17.2.2 Runtime warnings before a simulation
17.2.3 Runtime warnings during multiple simulation runs
17.3 Showing messages and warnings
17.3.1 Opening the Messages window
17.3.2 Editing messages
17.4 Using the vissim_msgs.txt log file.
17.5 Performing an error diagnosis with VDiagGUI.exe
17.6 Saving network file after losing connection to dongle

18 Add-on modules programming interfaces (API)
18.1 Using the COM Interface
18.1.1 Accessing attributes via the COM interface
18.1.2 Selecting and executing a script file
18.1.3 Using Python as the script language
18.2 Activating the external SC control procedures
18.3 Activating the external driver model with DriverModel.dll
18.4 Accessing EmissionModel.dll for the calculation of emissions

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18.5 Activating the external pedestrian model with PedestrianModel.dll

19 Overview of PTV Vissim files
19.1 Files with results of traffic flow simulation
19.2 Files for test mode
19.3 Files of dynamic assignment
19.4 Files of the ANM import
19.5 Other files

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20 References

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21 Index

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XXI

XXII

Important changes compared to previous versions

Important changes compared to previous versions
With the following changes and new features, the behavior of Vissim is very different to that of
previous versions.
You can find a complete list of the new features and changes to the current version in your
Vissim installation in the directory ..\Doc\ in the file ReleaseNotes_ VISSIM_
.pdf.
Versions before Vissim 10
In versions prior to Vissim 10, the Discontinued models directory is installed in the installation directory of Vissim, under ..\Exe\3DModels\Vehicles and ..\Exe\3DModels\Pedestrians.
From Vissim 10, the Discontinued models directory is no longer installed. To use 3D
models of this directory in Vissim 10, save the 3D models of the version prior to Vissim 10.
Then after installing Vissim 10, copy them into the directory where the *.inpx file is saved.
Versions prior to Vissim 9.00-03
In previous versions of Vissim 9.00-03, a route location on a ramp or stairway has no direction defined for its use by pedestrians. From Vissim 9.00-03, a route location defines a
direction for several cases (see "Modeling the course of pedestrian routes using intermediate points" on page 902).
Versions before Vissim 9
In versions prior to Vissim 9, the origin-destination matrix for dynamic assignment is saved
to *.fma file. From Vissim 9 on, the origin-destination matrix is saved to a matrix in Vissim, it
can be shown in the Matrices list and edited in the matrix editor.
To access the Help in versions prior to Vissim 9, from the Help menu, choose >
PTV Vissim Help. From Vissim 9, you can show the Help page (including attribute descriptions) for some windows. To do so, in the respective window, press the F1 button or click
the ? symbol.
Versions prior to Vissim 8.00-14 and Vissim 9.00-03
In previous versions of Vissim, selecting the path pre-selection options Reject paths with
too high total cost and Limit number of paths meant that paths were deleted from the
path collection/path file. From Vissim 8.00-14 and Vissim 9.00-03, selecting these options
only means that the corresponding paths will not be used in the respective time interval.
Versions before Vissim 8
In previous versions of Viswalk, for pedestrians, you could select Never walk back. This
attribute is no longer available. If the attribute is still activated in older entry data, the

Important changes compared to previous versions
attribute is deactivated when imported.
In previous versions, licenses could not be managed within Vissim. This is now possible
from Vissim 8 (see "Program start and start screen" on page 53).
The simulation results of Vissim 7 and Vissim 8 may differ, as e.g. the departure times from
vehicle inputs, parking lots and of PT lines were made uniform and for some special
cases, an improved driving behavior was integrated.
Versions before Vissim 7
In previous versions, the point was used as decimal separator. From Vissim 7, the decimal
separator in lists depends on the settings in the control panel of your operating system
(see "Selecting decimal separator via the control panel" on page 140).
In previous versions, the color of the vehicle status could be toggled during a simulation
run by pressing CTRL+V. From Vissim 7, this is possible with the key combination CTRL+E
(see "Dynamically assigning a color to vehicles during the simulation" on page 165).

Quick start: creating a network and starting simulation

Quick start: creating a network and starting simulation
Quick start shows you the most important steps that allow you to define base data, create a
network, make the necessary settings for simulation, and start simulation.
1. Opening Vissim and saving a new network file
2. Defining simulation parameters (see "Defining simulation parameters" on page 796)
3. Defining desired speed distribution (see "Using desired speed distributions" on page 228)
4. Defining vehicle types (see "Using vehicle types" on page 254)
5. Defining vehicle compositions (see "Modeling vehicle compositions" on page 425)
6. Loading the project area map as a background image (see "Inserting a background image"
on page 369)
7. Positioning, scaling, and saving the background image (see "Positioning background
image" on page 377). Scaling as precisely as possible (see "Scaling the background
image" on page 377).
8. Drawing links and connectors for lanes and crosswalks (see "Modeling links for vehicles
and pedestrians" on page 380), (see "Modeling connectors" on page 393)
9. Entering vehicle inputs at the end points of the network (see "Modeling vehicle inputs for
private transportation" on page 426). If you are using pedestrian simulation: defining
pedestrian flows at crosswalks (see "Modeling pedestrian inputs" on page 883).
10. Entering routing decisions and the corresponding routes (see "Modeling vehicle routes,
partial vehicle routes, and routing decisions" on page 430). If you are using pedestrian
simulation, you can also specify the following for pedestrians (see "Static pedestrian routes,
partial pedestrian routes and pedestrian routing decisions" on page 887).
11. Defining changes to the desired speed (see "Using reduced speed areas to modify
desired speed" on page 408), (see "Using desired speed to modify desired speed
decisions" on page 412)
12. Editing conflict areas at non-signalized intersections (see "Modeling conflict areas" on
page 526). You may enter priority rules for special cases (see "Modeling priority rules" on
page 506).
13. Defining stop signs at non-signalized intersections (see "Modeling stop signs and toll
counters" on page 536)
14. Defining SC with signal groups, entering or selecting times for fixed time controllers, e.g.
VAP or RBC (see "Modeling signal controllers" on page 542)
15. Inserting signal heads (see "Modeling signal groups and signal heads" on page 544)
16. Creating detectors at intersections with traffic-actuated signal control (see "Using
detectors" on page 557)

Quick start: creating a network and starting simulation
17. Inserting stop signs for right turning vehicles at red light (see "Using stop signs for right
turning vehicles even if red" on page 540)
18. Entering priority rules for left turning vehicles in conflict at red light and crosswalks (see
"Modeling priority rules" on page 506).
19. Defining dwell time distributions (see "Using time distributions" on page 237). Inserting PT
stops in the network (see "Modeling PT stops" on page 478)
20. Defining PT lines (see "Modeling PT lines" on page 485)
21. Activating evaluations, e.g. travel times, delays, queue counter, measurements (see
"Performing evaluations" on page 941)
22. Performing simulations (see "Selecting the number of simulation runs and starting
simulation" on page 801)

Typography and conventions

Typography and conventions
To make it easier for you to identify individual GUI elements in the manual, we have used the
following typography throughout the document.
Element
Program elements

Input data, output
data, Code examples
KEYS
Path and file name data

Description
Elements of the graphical user interface are bold-formatted:
Names of windows and tabbed pages
Entries in menus and selection lists
Names of options, window sections, buttons, input fields and
icons
Data that is entered, output or used as a code example is formatted in a different font.
Keys you need to press are printed in capital letters, e.g. CTRL +
C.
Directory paths and file names are printed in italics, e.g. C:\Program Files\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim \Doc\.

Prompts for actions and results of actions
If just a single step is required to solve a task, the paraphrase is indicated by an arrow.
1. In case of multiple steps to be done, these are numbered consecutively.
If the prompt for an action is followed by a visible intermediate result this result is listed in
italic format.
Also the final result of an action appears in italic format.
Warnings, notes and tips for using the program
Warning: Warnings might indicate data loss.

Note: Notes provide either information on possible consequences caused by an action
or background information on the program logic.

Tip: Tips contain alternative methods for operating the program.

Using the mouse buttons
By default, click means left mouse click, e.g.:
1. Click the Open button.
If you need to use the right mouse button, you are explicitly asked to do so, e.g.:
© PTV GROUP

Typography and conventions
Right-click in the list.
Tip: In Network editors, by default a right-click opens the shortcut menu. However, you
can choose to have a network object inserted instead. The right-click was used to insert
network objects in versions prior to Vissim 6 (see "Right-click behavior and action after
creating an object" on page 143).
Names of network object attributes
The attributes of network objects that are displayed by default in the windows of the program
interface or in the attribute lists are described in tables. The first column lists the attribute name
as used in the program interface, e.g. Vehicle record. If the short or long name of the attribute
is different, these names are listed in the other columns together with a description of the
attribute, e.g. Vehicle record active (VehRecAct). In the attribute lists provided of the user
interface, you can show additional or hide existing attributes (see "Selecting attributes and
subattributes for a list" on page 106).

1 Introduction

1 Introduction
PTV Vissim is the leading microscopic simulation program for modeling multimodal transport
operations and belongs to the Vision Traffic Suite software.
Realistic and accurate in every detail, Vissim creates the best conditions for you to test
different traffic scenarios before their realization.
Vissim is now being used worldwide by the public sector, consulting firms and universities.
In addition to the simulation of vehicles by default, you can also use Vissim to perform
simulations of pedestrians based on the Wiedemann model (see "Version-specific functions of
pedestrian simulation" on page 815).

1.1

Simulation of pedestrians with PTV Viswalk
PTV Viswalk is the leading software for pedestrian simulation. Based on the Social Force
Model by Prof. Dr. Dirk Helbing, it reproduces the human walking behavior realistically and
reliably. This software solution with powerful features is used when it is necessary to simulate
and analyze pedestrian flows, be it outdoors or indoors.
Viswalk is designed for all those who wish to take into account the needs of pedestrians in
their projects or studies, for example for traffic planners and traffic consultants, architects and
owners of publicly accessible properties, event managers and fire safety officers.
Using PTV Viswalk alone, however, you cannot simulate vehicle flows. To simulate vehicle
and pedestrian flows, you need Vissim and the add-on module PTV Viswalk. You can then
choose whether to use the modeling approach of Helbing or Wiedemann.

1.2

PTV Vissim use cases
Vissim is a microscopic, time step oriented, and behavior-based simulation tool for modeling
urban and rural traffic as well as pedestrian flows.
Besides private transportation (PrT), you may also model rail- and road- based public
transportation (PuT).
The traffic flow is simulated under various constraints of lane distribution, vehicle composition,
signal control, and the recording of PrT and PT vehicles.
Vissim allows you to comfortably test and analyze the interaction between systems, such as
adaptive signal controls, route recommendation in networks, and communicating vehicles
(C2X).
Simulate the interaction between pedestrian streams and local public and private transport, or
plan the evacuation of buildings and entire stadiums.
Vissim may be deployed to answer various issues. The following use cases represent a few
possible areas of application:

1.2 PTV Vissim use cases
Comparison of junction geometry
Model various junction geometries
Simulate the traffic for multiple node variations
Account for the interdependency of different modes of transport (motorized, rail, cyclists,
pedestrians)
Analyze numerous planning variants regarding level of service, delays or queue length
Graphical depiction of traffic flows
Traffic development planning
Model and analyze the impact of urban development plans
Have the software support you in setting up and coordinating construction sites
Benefit from the simulation of pedestrians inside and outside buildings
Simulate parking search, the size of parking lots, and their impact on parking behavior
Capacity analysis
Realistically model traffic flows at complex intersection systems
Account for and graphically depict the impact of throngs of arriving traffic, interlacing
traffic flows between intersections, and irregular intergreen times
Traffic control systems
Investigate and visualize traffic on a microscopic level
Analyze simulations regarding numerous traffic parameters (for example speed, queue
length, travel time, delays)
Examine the impact of traffic-actuated control and variable message signs
Develop actions to speed up the traffic flow
Signal systems operations and re-timing studies
Simulate travel demand scenarios for signalized intersections
Analyze traffic-actuated control with efficient data input, even for complex algorithms
Create and simulate construction and signal plans for traffic calming before starting implementation
Vissim provides numerous test functions that allow you to check the impact of signal controls

1.3 Traffic flow model and light signal control
Public transit simulation
Model all details for bus, tram, subway, light rail transit, and commuter rail operations
Analyze transit specific operational improvements, by using built-in industry standard signal priority
Simulate and compare several approaches, showing different courses for special public
transport lanes and different stop locations (during preliminary draft phase)
Test and optimize switchable, traffic-actuated signal controls with public transport priority
(during implementation planning)

1.3

Traffic flow model and light signal control
Vissim is based on a traffic flow model and the light signal control. These exchange detector
readings and signaling status.
You can run the traffic flow simulation of vehicles or pedestrians as animation in Vissim. You
can clearly display many important vehicular parameters in windows or you can output them in
files or databases, for example, travel time distributions and delay distributions differentiated
by user groups.
The traffic flow model is based on a car-following model (for the modeling of driving in a
stream on a single lane) and on a lane changing model.
External programs for light signal control model the traffic-dependent control logic units. The
control logic units query detector readings in time steps of one to 1/10 second. You can define
the time steps for that reason and they depend on the signal control type. Using detector
readings, e.g. occupancy and time gap data, the control logic units determine the signaling
status of all signals for the next time step and deliver them back to the traffic flow simulation.
Vissim can use multiple and also diverse external signal control programs in one simulation,
for example, VAP, VSPLUS.
Communication between traffic flow model and traffic signal control:

1.3.1 Operating principles of the car following model

1.3.1

Operating principles of the car following model
Vehicles are moving in the network using a traffic flow model. The quality of the traffic flow
model is essential for the quality of the simulation. In contrast to simpler models in which a
largely constant speed and a deterministic car following logic are provided, Vissim uses the
psycho-physical perception model developed by Wiedemann (1974) (see "Driving states in
the traffic flow model according to Wiedemann" on page 270). The basic concept of this model
is that the driver of a faster moving vehicle starts to decelerate as he reaches his individual
perception threshold to a slower moving vehicle. Since he cannot exactly determine the speed
of that vehicle, his speed will fall below that vehicle’s speed until he starts to slightly accelerate
again after reaching another perception threshold. There is a slight and steady acceleration
and deceleration. The different driver behavior is taken into consideration with distribution
functions of the speed and distance behavior.

1.3.1 Operating principles of the car following model

Car following model (according to: Wiedemann 1974)
Legend
Axes: d: Distance, Δv: Change in speed
1: "Free flow" state
2: Following state

3: Approaching state
4: Braking state
5: Collision state

The car following model has been calibrated through multiple measurements at the Institute of
transport studies of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (since 2009 KIT – Karlsruhe Institute
of Technology), Germany. Recent measurements ensure that changes in driving behavior and
technical capabilities of the vehicles are accounted for.
Vissim calculates the acceleration of a vehicle during free traffic flow, below the desired
speed, based on the following:
If the desired safety distance is set to 100 percent, the vehicle drives at the same
speed as its preceding vehicle.
If the desired safety distance is set to between 100 and 110 percent, the speed is interpolated between the vehicle's desired speed and the speed of its preceding vehicle.
If the desired safety distance is set to greater than or equal to 110 percent, the vehicle
accelerates at its desired speed.

1.4 How to install and start PTV Vissim
For multi-lane roadways a driver in the Vissim model takes into account not only the vehicles
ahead (default: 4 vehicles), but also the vehicles in the two adjacent lanes. In addition, a
signal control for about 100 meters before reaching the stop line leads to increased attention
of the driver.
Vissim simulates the traffic flow by moving driver- vehicle- units through a network. Every
driver with his specific behavior characteristics is assigned to a specific vehicle. As a
consequence, the driving behavior corresponds to the technical capabilities of his vehicle.
Attributes characterizing each driver- vehicle unit can be subdivided into following three
categories:
Technical specification of the vehicle, for example:
Vehicle length
Maximum speed
Accelerating power
and:
Actual vehicle position in the network
Actual speed and acceleration
Behavior of driver-vehicle units, for example:
Psycho-physical perception thresholds of the driver, e.g. ability to estimate, perception
of security, willingness to take risk
Driver memory
Acceleration based on current speed and driver’s desired speed
Interdependence of driver-vehicle units, for example:
Reference to vehicles in front and trailing vehicles on own and adjacent lanes
Reference to currently used network segment and next node
Reference to next traffic signal

1.4

How to install and start PTV Vissim
Vissim is provided electronically or on a DVD with demo files, examples files, its
documentation, and other license dependent files.

1.4.1

Information on installation and deinstallation
For information on program installation and deinstallation, refer to Vissim Installation Manual.pdf.
The installation guide is on the DVD, in the ..\OnCD\Documentation\Eng folder.
After the installation, you will find the installation guide in your Vissim installation, under
..\Doc\Eng.

1.4.2

Content of the PTV Vision program group
After you have installed Vissim, several icons are displayed in the PTV Vision program group,
depending on your license and the options chosen during the installation process. To call the

1.4.3 Specifying the behavior of the right mouse button when starting the program for the first
program, from the Start menu, choose > All Programs > PTV Vision > PTV Vissim
(navigation of the Start menu depends on your operating system).
Element
Vissim

V3DM

VISVAP

1.4.3

Description
Opens Vissim:
with an empty network, if no default network is saved.
Opens the program with this network, if a default network is
saved (see "Overview of menus" on page 113)
Opens the add-on module V3DM (Vissim 3D modeler). Using V3DM,
you can convert 3D models of the file formats DWF (Design Web
Format), 3DS (Autodesk), and SKP (Sketchup) into the Vissim 3D
format V3D. This applies to static 3D models and vehicle models (see
"Using static 3D models" on page 638).
Opens the add on module VISVAP. VisVAP is tool that allows you to
easily create the program logic of a VAP signal control as a flow chart.

Specifying the behavior of the right mouse button when starting the program for
the first time
When you start Vissim for the first time, the window Right Click Behavior Definition opens. To
select the function that is carried out, right-click in the Network editor.
1. Select the desired entry.
Element
Context menu
Creating a new
object

Description
The context menu of the Network editor opens (see "Network editor
context menu" on page 78).
In the Network editor, insert a new network object of type selected in
the Network objects toolbar. The context menu of the Network editor
does not open. This is the behavior of Vissim versions released prior
to version 6.

2. Confirm with OK.
Tips:
If you hold down the CTRL key and right-click in the Network editor you are modeling in, you can switch to another function and execute it.
You can change the right-click behavior again (see "Right-click behavior and
action after creating an object" on page 143).

1.4.4

Agreeing to share diagnostics and usage data
With the third start of Vissim, the window We need your help! opens.

1.5 Technical information and requirements

Confirm with Yes, I would like to help.
You can deactivate the recording of diagnostics and usage data (see "Allowing the collection
of usage data" on page 147).

1.5

Technical information and requirements
Current information on the technical requirements for the current Vissim version can be found
on our website PTV Vissim FAQs. The following information, e.g., is essential:
Entry (#3): What are the hardware and software requirements for Vissim?
Entry (#6): Which graphics card has the best performance with Vissim 3D?

1.5.1

Criteria for simulation speed
The speed of a Vissim simulation primarily depends on the following criteria:
Number of vehicles and/or pedestrians used simultaneously in the network
Number of signal controls
Type of signal controls
Number of processor cores deployed
Computer performance. On a faster computer, a simulation will run faster with the same
network file.

1.5.2 Main memory recommended
Tip: With the 64-bit editions of Vissim and Viswalk, you can use a larger main memory
of more than 3 GB RAM.

1.5.2

Main memory recommended
Vissim edition
32-bit
64-bit

Main memory recommended
min. 2 GB RAM
min. 4 GB RAM

The memory requirements may be considerably higher for the following use cases:
Networks with many dynamically assigned paths
Large applications with many pedestrian areas

1.5.3

Graphics card requirements
If under User Preferences > GUI > Graphics, the graphics driver OpenGL 3.0 is selected,
make sure that your video card at least supports OpenGL 3.0.
Ensure that the latest driver update has been installed for your graphics card. This way, you
will avoid visualization problems when using the 3D mode. For many graphics adapters, you
can download update drivers from the Internet.
Note: Should any problems arise with the 3D display in Vissim, first install the latest
driver update for your graphics card before you contact PTV Vision Support.

1.5.4

Interfaces
Not all program interfaces are by default part of your Vissim license. They might be available
as add-on modules (see "Add-on modules programming interfaces (API)" on page 1127). Addon modules and their documentation are saved in the folder ..\Vissim\API.

1.5.5

Number of characters of filename and path
With Windows, the number of characters of a path, including drive letter and filename, is
limited to 260.
With Windows, the number of characters of a path is limited to 248.
In Scenario Management, the length of the path to the project directory is limited to 214
characters.
Make sure that your project files are not saved to any paths longer than that. This for
instance includes the following paths:
Name of *.inpx network file and path to the directory where the network file is saved.
Directories and subdirectories you create during a project Files saved to these directories
Directories and subdirectories that Vissim creates automatically or to which Vissim
saves data, e.g. for scenario management or evaluations.

1.6 Overview of add-on modules

1.6

Overview of add-on modules
Vissim is available with the following add-on modules:

1.6.1

General modules
Dynamic assignment
The module Dynamic Assignment is used to distribute the vehicles automatically among
the available paths. Users only need to specify an origin-destination matrix and the parking
lots assigned to the corresponding zones. They are not required to enter static routes
manually (see "Using the dynamic assignment add-on module" on page 653).
EnViVer Pro
EnViVer Pro is a tool used to calculate emissions based on vehicle record data.
EnViVer Enterprise
In addition to the functions of EnViVer Pro, EnViVer Enterprise allows for the modeling of
additional vehicle classes, individual time periods as well as automatic processing of
several input files.
3D packages: 3DS Max Export and V3DM
Export 3DS Max: Network data and vehicle positions are exported from Vissim as text files
and can be imported into Autodesk's 3ds Max software. The 3D packet contains a script in
the Autodesk macro language, as well as numerous vehicle model information.
Using V3DM (Vissim 3D modeler), allows users to convert 3D models of the file formats
DWF, 3DS (both by Autodesk), and SKP (Sketchup) into Vissim 3D format V3D. This works
for both static models and vehicles.
Example MAX files for vehicle models are located in the ..\API\3dsMaxExport\MAXModels
folder of your Vissim installation.
Synchro Import
Using this module, users can generate Vissim models from Synchro. The network
geometry, volumes, turns, vehicle compositions, and signalization are imported. The
module supports adaptive import. This means changes made in Vissim are not lost when
more current versions of the Synchro model are imported.
Mesoscopic simulation
The module allows for significantly faster simulation of larger networks compared to
microscopic simulation. The driving behavior is still based on individual vehicles and a
temporal resolution of, e.g., a tenth of a second. The difference is that the individual
vehicles are not looked at with each time step, but only when an event occurs. Such an
event could, for instance, be a vehicle reaching the end of a route and traversing a node, or
an SC switching to green.
The main benefits of mesoscopic simulation are increased simulation speed and less time
required for creating and calibrating the network.

1.6.2 Signal controllers: Complete procedures
If an area of the network still needs to be microscopically simulated, including all the
details, hybrid simulation can be used. It allows you to select one or multiple sections for
microscopic simulation, while the rest of the network undergoes mesoscopic simulation.
(see "Using add-on module for mesoscopic simulation" on page 758).
PTV Viswalk
Viswalk Is used for professional pedestrian simulation, either as a stand-alone solution or
in combination with Vissim. The dynamic model is based on the Social Forces Model
developed in 1995, inter alia, by Prof. Dirk Helbing. It allows pedestrians to walk
independently to their destination, without a network model predefining their trajectories.
A simple pedestrian simulation, based on directed routes (instead of areas), is included in
Vissim. It is based on the car following model of Professor Wiedemann, as is the vehicle
simulation. It does not require the Viswalk module (see "Pedestrian simulation" on page
814).
BIM Import
The BIM Import module converts BIM files (Building Information Model) of the data format
IFC (Industry Foundation Class) into INPX files. These converted INPX files are meant for
use in pedestrian simulation with Viswalk.
Nearly every CAD software supports IFC export and thus provides an interface between the
CAD software and Viswalk. The Importer converts slabs into areas, walls into obstacles and
can import stairways, whilst keeping the level structure. Slabs with curves or holes are
automatically optimized for use in Viswalk during data import (see "Importing Building
Information Model files" on page 837).

1.6.2

Signal controllers: Complete procedures
Econolite ASC/3 (see "Add-on module Econolite ASC/3" on page 578)
This module enables user to simulate signal controllers that run on ASC/3 North American
controller devices by Econolite. It provides a dedicated user interface for its control
parameters.
RBC (Ring Barrier Controller) (see "Using the Ring Barrier Controller RBC add-on module" on page 583)
This module enables PTV Vissim to simulate signal controllers that are controlled
according to the North American standard procedure "ring barrier controller". It provides a
dedicated user interface for the RBC parameters.
Signal control procedure vehicle-actuated programming (VAP) (see "Add-on module
Traffic-dependent VAP Programming" on page 590)
VAP enables Vissim to simulate programmable vehicle-actuated signal controls (SC). This
is possible for both stage or signal group based signal controls. During Vissim simulation
runs or in the test mode, VAP interprets the control logic commands and generates the
signal control commands for the signal control that become effective in the network. Vice
versa, detector parameters are retrieved from the Vissim network and processed in the
logic. The VAP program logic is described in a text file (*.vap) with a simple programming

1.6.2 Signal controllers: Complete procedures
language. It can be also be exported from VisVAP. The signal data file (*.pua) can either be
comfortably exported from Vissig or generated manually in a text editor. The range of
application of VAP stretches from controls for individual nodes over PT priorities to complex
control systems for entire corridors or subnetworks. Additionally, applications in the ITS
range, e.g. variable message signs (VMS) or temporary side lane clearances are readily
possible.
VisVAP
Flow chart editor for VAP: VisVAP (short for Visual VAP) is an easy to use tool for defining
the program logic of VAP signal controllers as a flow chart. All VAP commands are listed in
a function library. The export function allows users to generate VAP files, which saves
additional changes to the VAP file. Moreover, VisVAP provides a debug functionality that
during a running simulation in Vissim allows users to go through the control logic step by
step using the control logic. It also shows the current values of all parameters used in the
logic. To start VisVap, from the Start menu, choose > PTV Vision program group.
Vissig (see "Opening and using the SC Editor" on page 595)
Vissig complements the stage-based fixed time control (which is included in any basic
Vissim version and in the Visum module "Junction editor and control") by additionally
providing stage-based fixed time signal control. Vissig contains a graphical editor for
defining stages and interstages. Interstages can also be automatically generated by Vissig.
Besides providing the usual functionality, the signal program editor allows users to easily
extend or shorten stages and interstages. Additionally, Vissig offers an interface for the
export of signal data compliant with VAP in the PUA format so that a traffic-dependent
signal control with VAP can be easily generated on the basis of the generated stages and
interstages. All signal plan information can be exported to Microsoft Excel and easily added
to reports.
Balance/Epics (see "Using Balance-Central signal controllers" on page 576), (see "Using
Epics/Balance-Local signal controllers" on page 577)
PTV Balance is a comprehensive and proven adaptive transport network control software
which is fully integrated into Vissim. Used in conjunction with the local adaptive node
control PTV Epics or on its own, it calculates new signal plans for all nodes in the
simulation network every 5 minutes based on the current detector data of the simulation.
The module balance/epics allows you to simulate PTV Balance using Vissim, just like in
the real application. The road network and transport demand data for PTV Balance are
supplied by .anm/.anmroutesfiles and require PTV Visum. The signalization related
parameters of PTV Balanceare supplied with an extended version of Vissig. PTV
Balancecomes with a web-based and user-friendly program interface. It allows for a direct
comparison of the calculated traffic parameters with the vehicles simulated in Vissim.
Moreover, this supply does not contain any formatting and can also be used in real network
control projects with PTV Balance.
PTV Epics is a local, adaptive signal control, with a special focus on public transportation. It
can be used instead of a fixed time or VAP signal control. You can simulate it using Vissim.
Every second, the mathematical optimization function in PTV Epics uses current detector
data to calculate the best signal plan for the next 100 seconds. It then transfers this signal
plan to Vissim. All parameters required by PTV Epics are supplied by an extended version
40

1.6.3 Signal control: Interfaces
of Vissig. All modes of transport (private, public, pedestrian) are treated similarly, but can
be weighted differently. This makes it particularly easy to implement acceleration in public
transport with PTV Epics.

1.6.3

Signal control: Interfaces
External signal control SC
This module allows users to simulate signal controller procedures, which are available as a
separate executable application (*.exe) or program library (*.dll). These can be either
standard procedures supplied by PTV GROUP or other providers, or procedures
developed internally with the API module.
LISA+ OMTC
This add-on is used to simulate signal controls specified with the LISA+ procedure by
Schlothauer. The actual control DLL and the GUI for the controller parameters can be
obtained from Schlothauer.
SCATS interface
This module is used to simulate signal controllers specified according to the Australian
SCATS procedure. The actual control DLL and the GUI for entry of the control parameters
(SCATS.DLL, SCATS_GUI.DLL, WinTraff, ScatSim) must be obtained from Roads and
Maritime Services of New South Wales, Australia.
SCOOT interface
The SCOOT interface is used to simulate signal controllers that are specified according to
the British SCOOT procedure. The actual control DLL and the GUI for the control
parameters (SCOOT.DLL, SCOOT_GUI.DLL, PCScoot) can be obtained from Siemens UK.

1.6.4

Programming interfaces
API Package Application Programmer's Interface:
SignalControl, SignalGUI, DriverModel, and EmissionModel.DLL files. The API package
enables users to integrate their own or external applications in order to influence a PTV
Vissim simulation (see "Add-on modules programming interfaces (API)" on page 1127).

1.7

Using a demo version
When you open a demo version, Demo version is displayed in the title bar.
You can use an installed demo version for 30 days after it has first been opened.
You can initially open the demo version during a maximum period of 180 days from its
build.
Demo version users do not receive any technical support.
The Help and the manual can be opened via the Help menu. You can find answers to frequently asked questions about Vissim on our web pages PTV Vissim FAQs.

1.8 Using PTV Vissim Viewer
A demo version does not allow you to print or save any data.
The COM interface is not provided.
Simulation runs are limited to 1800 simulation seconds.
You can work with a demo version for a maximum of two hours.
In the matrix editor, you cannot copy data.
The command Save as Default Network is not available.
If the demo version is overwritten by a later version of the service pack, the 30-day trial
period starts anew.

1.8

Using PTV Vissim Viewer
Using the Vissim Viewer, you can, for instance, forward project data to your customers. The
Vissim Viewer is a limited Vissim version, which needs to be additionally installed.

1.8.1

Limitations of the Vissim Viewer
Network files cannot be saved.
Evaluation files cannot be generated.
Simulation runs are possible only for the first 1,800 s. This period cannot be extended in
order to show longer simulation runs. If it is necessary to show the visualization of vehicles
and/or pedestrians beyond the first 1,800 s, animation files *.ani can be used. For animation files there is no time limit.
The COM interface is not provided.
There are no demo examples available.

1.8.2

Vissim Viewer installation and update
You can install or update the Vissim Viewer for 32-bit versions of Vissim. To do so, download
the program from our website.
1. Open the web page PTV Vissim & PTV Viswalk Service Pack Download Area.
2. For your 32-bit version, click (32 Bit) Service Packs.
In the Available Downloads table, the entries are displayed sorted by:
Vissim Viewer Update for an update of your installation
Vissim Viewer Setup for a new installation
descending by version number
You can download updates in the EXE or ZIP file formats. Setups are downloaded in the
ZIP file format.
3. In the row of the desired Vissim viewer, click the Download button.
4. Save the downloaded file to your hard disk.

1.9 Using the PTV Vissim Simulation Engine
5. If you have downloaded a ZIP file, extract it.
6. Start the setup respectively update program.
The Vissim Viewer is added to the Start menu.
The Archive.zip file downloaded also includes a viewer_readme.txt. This file describes how to
create a CD for your clients that contains this limited Vissim version and your project data.

1.9

Using the PTV Vissim Simulation Engine
The Vissim Simulation Engine is a limited version of Vissim. It allows users to perform
simulations and record the results. It does not have a graphical user interface. The Network
editor and lists are not available. The Vissim Simulation Engine needs a dongle to use license
base data, Vissim modules and signal controllers.
In a typical use case, you would model your network using a full version of Vissim and deploy
multiple computers installed with the Vissim Simulation Engine to calculate simulations of the
network that are configured differently. You can access the Vissim Simulation Engine via the
COM interface.

1.10 Using files with examples
Example data are provided in the folders Examples Demo and Examples Training.
Depending on the Microsoft Windows operating system used, they are saved to different
directories, for example:
..\Users\Public\Public Documents\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim
Tip: This directory contains the Examples Overview.pdf file with brief descriptions
available in English.

1.10.1

Opening the Examples Demo folder
From the Help menu, choose > Examples > Open Demo Directory.

1.10.2

Opening the Examples Training folder
From the Help menu, choose > Examples > Open Training Directory.

1.11 Opening the Working directory
The *.inpx network file of the network currently opened is saved to the working directory.
From the File menu, choose > Open Working Directory.

1.11.1

Opening the working directory from the Windows Explorer
To show the Vissim Working directory in the Windows Explorer, in the Windows Explorer, enter
the string of a variable.

1.12 Documents
For this purpose, the variable Vissim_EXAMPLES is automatically created during
the installation process.
1. In the Windows Explorer, into the address bar, enter: %VISSIM100_EXAMPLES% or
%VISWALK100_EXAMPLES%
2. Confirm with Enter.

1.12 Documents
We provide a comprehensive manual to help you quickly become familiar with Vissim and
Viswalk:
The Help and manual describe functions and procedures. The step-by-step instructions guide you through tasks. The Help and manual are identical in content (see
"Showing the PTV Vissim Help" on page 44), (see "Showing the user manual" on page
44).
Additional documentation is available for further information (see "Additional documentation" on page 44)

1.12.1

Showing the user manual
If during the installation of Vissim the installation of the user manual is not deactivated, it is
saved as a PDF file to the ..\Doc\ folder of your Vissim installation directory.

1.12.2

Showing the PTV Vissim Help
If during the installation process of Vissim the installation of the Help was not deactivated, you
can access the Help in Vissim.
Opening the PTV Vissim Help and showing the start page
From the Help menu, choose > PTV Vissim Help.
The Help start page opens.
Showing the COM interface reference documentation
Reference documentation for the COM interface Vissim - COM is by default available as a
separate Help in the ..\exe directory of your Vissim installation.
Showing Help of the attributes in currently opened window
Press F1.

1.12.3

Additional documentation
In your Vissim installation directory, in the folder ..\Doc\Eng\ , you can find the following
documentation. These are partly also available in other languages.

1.12.3 Additional documentation
Vissim - Installation Manual.pdf: Installation guide
Vissim 9 - what's new.pdf: Description of the most important changes in Vissim 9 compared to Vissim 8
Vissim 10 - what's new.pdf: Description of the most important changes in Vissim 10 compared to Vissim 9
ReleaseNotes_Vissim_.pdf: Release notes
They contain information on changes, bug fixes, and new features available in the Vissim
service packs. You can access the information by keyword search. New service packs are
provided for download on a regular basis on the PTV GROUP website.
Vissim - Manual.pdf: user manual, describing functions, network objects and
attributes.
Vissim - COM Intro.pdf: Introduction into the Vissim COM interface in English
Using the Component Object Model (COM) interface and scripts, you can access data and
functions in Vissim. Via the COM interface, you can find the Vissim - COM.chm
file, by default, in the ..\PTV Vissim \Exe folder.
Overview_CodeMeter.pdf: Information on how to use the CodeMeter Runtime Kit and set
up CodeMeter as a dongle server
CodeMeter_Support.txt: Information on support for WIBU CodeMeter dongle
CodeMeterAdministratorManual6.20_en.pdf: CodeMeter Administrator manual version
6.20 - April 2016
VAP__.pdf: User manual for VAP add-on module, which allows
you to simulate a freely programmable, stage or signal group oriented, traffic-actuated signal control
vap_chan__.txt: upgrades and bug fixes in VAP/SIM
VisVAP .pdf: User manual VisVAP (tool that allows you to display
the program logic as a flow chart)
LISA+_OMTC.pdf: only in directory ..\Doc\Deu\: Information on VIAP LISA+ / Vissim interface
LicenseAgreementGeneral.rtf: Vissim license agreement
attribute.xlsx:
List of tables for base data types and network object types
List of attributes, including ID, short name, long name, singular, plural in the languages Vissim is available in.
List of EnumStrings: enumeration types with predefined values
List of relations: base data types and network object types that have relations to other
base data types and network object types, as well as the base data types and/or network object types assigned.
The directory ..\Doc\Eng\ also includes the following documentation:

1.13 Service and support
Manual_RBC.pdf: Ring Barrier Controller Manual
Manual_Synchro_Import.pdf: Synchro 7 Import Manual
release_notes_RBC.txt

1.13 Service and support
With Vissim you receive extensive technical documentation and can call on the services of
PTV GROUP. PTV GROUP provides technical support in the following cases:
Program errors in the current program version
Questions about the use of Vissim
Notes: The prerequisite for technical support is participation in a basic course for Vision
Traffic Suite.
As our software is continually being improved, we regret being limited when it comes to
providing support for older program versions.
Please understand that the PTV Vision Support cannot replace a training course. PTV Vision
Support can neither impart specialist engineering knowledge which goes beyond the
functionality of the product, for example concerning demand modeling, signal control or
project-related problems. Should you require any help on these subjects, we will be happy to
offer you a project-specific training course.

1.13.1

Using the manual, Help and FAQ list
Before you make an inquiry to the technical support, please read the information about the
topic in the manual, the Help or the FAQs.

1.13.1.1

FAQs
Here you can find the answers to frequently asked questions about Vissim on our web pages:
PTV Vissim FAQs
Note: For access to the FAQ list you need access to the Internet.

From the Help menu, choose > FAQ (Online).
In your browser, the Vissim FAQ list appears.

1.13.2
1.13.2.1

Services by the PTV GROUP
Product information on the Internet
On the PTV GROUP web page you can find further product information, AVI files with
examples of various simulations as well as service packs, which you can download:
Homepage of PTV Group: PTV Vissim

1.13.2 Services by the PTV GROUP

1.13.2.2

Product training sessions
PTV GROUP offers training sessions for entry-level and experienced users.
We will be glad to carry out training sessions in your own company. You can also participate in
training sessions which we hold on our own premises.
You can find the latest information on our web page:
PTV Vissim Training Courses

1.13.2.3

Maintenance Agreement
A Maintenance Agreement ensures that the current version of Vissim or Viswalk is always
available.
Advantages of a Maintenance Agreement:
Provision of the latest version of Vissim or Viswalk, as soon as it is available
Service packs for the current version for download from our web pages
Support by PTV Vision Support
Please address any inquiries about Maintenance Agreements to:
customerservice@vision.ptvgroup.com.

1.13.2.4

Downloading service packs
If you have a Maintenance Agreement you can download the service packs for the current
version of Vissim or Viswalk from the Internet.
1. Open the web page PTV Vissim & PTV Viswalk Service Pack Download Area.
2. Click on the desired version.
Depending on the product you are using, you can download files in the EXE or ZIP file
format.
3. In the Available Downloads table, click the row with the desired product. Then click the
Download button.
4. Download the file.

1.13.2.5

Being automatically informed about new service packs
You can be notified if new service packs are available for downloading.
1. Open the web page PTV Vissim & PTV Viswalk Service Pack Download Area.
2. Click on sign-up/sign-off.
3. Fill in the form.
4. Click the Submit button.

1.13.3 Posting a support request

1.13.2.6

PTV Vision Support
PTV GROUP offers technical support for Viswalk and Vissim (see "Posting a support request"
on page 48).

1.13.2.7

PTV Vissim Webinars
Learn about the concepts of simulation in PTV Vissim step by step in our free webinars. For
current information on our webinars, check our Webinars site.

1.13.3

Posting a support request
You can contact PTV Vision Support with a contact form in the following cases:
Program errors in the current Vissim version. As our software is continually being
improved, we regret being limited when it comes to providing support for older program
versions.
If you have a Maintenance Agreement, you can contact us with inquiries about your project and for modeling.
Before you contact us with questions and problems:
From the Help menu, choose Vissim Help or use the manual to try to solve the problem.
These often contain the information which you are looking for.
Read the tips and tricks on the Internet: PTV Vissim Tips & Tricks.
Read the FAQ list on the Internet. These often contain the information which you are looking for. The FAQ list also contains valuable information about modeling.
In the interest of an efficient processing of your inquiry to PTV Vision Support we request that
you use the corresponding hotline contact form on the Internet:
Technical Support PTV Vissim
Technical Support PTV Viswalk
Note: The following information is necessary for the smooth processing of your inquiry:
A description of the problem
The steps which were performed immediately before the problem occurred
If necessary, screenshots of the program states
All files which are necessary for the reproduction of the error
The following data are automatically entered into the form:
The Vissim version and service pack number, e.g. 10.00-01, listed in the title line
of Vissim
Vissim edition, 32 Bit or 64 Bit
The operating system and service pack number
The PTV customer number
The dongle number
Thank you for your cooperation!

1.13.4 Requests to the Traffic customer service

1.13.4

Requests to the Traffic customer service
Our Traffic customer service will respond to general requests concerning Vissim.
For inquiries about license fees, please contact:
info@vision.ptvgroup.com
Please address inquiries about Maintenance Agreements to PTV Traffic Customerservice:
customerservice@vision.ptvgroup.com

1.13.5

Showing program and license information
You can show information on the dongle, network size, installed add-ons, version number,
build number and installation directory of your Vissim installation as well as manage licenses.
From the Help menu, choose > License.
The License window opens.
The following license information is displayed:
Maximum section
Signal Controllers (SC): Maximum number of SC
Network Size: Maximum network extent in km
Link behavior types: Maximum number of link behavior types
Period: Maximum simulation duration in seconds
Pedestrians: Maximum number of pedestrians
Modules section
List of modules and add-on modules Check marks show the licensed modules and
add-on modules installed.
Signal Controllers section
List of signal control procedures supported
Version section
Customer-specific data of the installed version
Program path: Path of installation directory
Manage licenses: Opens the License Management window (see "Managing licenses" on
page 49).
Note: If your Vissim license does not include the Viswalk add-on module, you may still
perform a pedestrian simulation with up to 30 pedestrians.

1.13.6

Managing licenses
You can identify the licenses available in your network and specify which licenses you want to
use when you start the program. In the same way, you can manage the licenses for individual
modules.
1. From the Help menu, choose > License.
The License window opens.

1.13.6 Managing licenses
2. Click the Manage licenses button.
The License Management - PTV Vissim window opens. PTV Vissim automatically
searches for licenses.
Tip: You can also open the License Management - PTV Vissim window from the start
menu for programs under PTV Vision > PTV Vissim License Manager.
3. Make the desired changes:
Element
Settings

Description
You can show or hide the section.
Check out automatically, if possible:
Select this option to have the path to the licenses in the registry
automatically loaded and started when you start PTV Vissim. The
License Management - PTV Vissim window does not open. The
option is selected by default.

If you do not select this option, the License Management - PTV
Vissim window will always open when you start PTV Vissim and
you will need to select a license. PTV Vissim starts automatically,
independently of the option, if exactly one PTV Vissim license exists
on all searched CodeMeter dongles.
Delete saved license list: Deletes all license information saved to the
following directory (example): C:\User\\AppData\Roaming\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim 10
If you open the License Management - PTV Vissim window, initially, the
found licenses are displayed in gray because the CodeMeter servers have
not yet been searched at that time.
You can get the current status of all available licenses if you click Update
all displayed licenses below the list of found licenses.
The next time you open PTV Vissim, you can specify new settings.
If you want to save a new licenses.data file, close the License
Management - PTV Vissim window with OK.
You can find information on a central, user-independent license
management below this table.
CodeMeter Used license servers with status on which a CodeMeter server is installed.
server envir- The list is based on the CodeMeter server search list.
onment
Update: Search for computers in your network on which a CodeMeter
server has been installed. The list is updated.

Licenses

Vissim licenses and/or Viswalk licenses that in your network have been
saved to CodeMeter servers.
Use license: Select the license with which you want to start PTV Vis-

1.13.6 Managing licenses
Element

Description
sim. You may select multiple licenses. The sequence in the list determines the sequence in which the licenses are reserved. If a license is
being used by another user, it cannot be selected.
Product: Shows products for which the license is valid. Use + and - to
show and hide the list of modules. You can book out individual modules.
License name: License text
Number: For a network license, the number of licenses is shown. For
single-user licenses, the text N/A is displayed.
Expiration date: If applicable, the expiration date of the license is
shown, otherwise may be used for an unlimited period.
Network size: Network size of the license is displayed
Languages: Languages supported by the licensed version
Server: License server
Box: Shows serial number of the CodeMeter stick
Move the row of selected licenses one row up
Move the row of selected licenses one row down
Moves the row of selected licenses to the top of the list
Moves the row of selected licenses to the bottom of the list

Remove
from list
Find
licenses
Update all
displayed
licenses
Activate
new or
changed
license

Delete selected licenses from the list
Start a network search for CodeMeter servers.
Search for licenses on computers that are shown in the CodeMeter server
environment list. The Found licenses list is updated.
The hyperlink opens the PTV website on which you can enter the ticket
code for the activation process. For further information on how to proceed,
refer to the installation guide in your Vissim installation folder under
..\Doc\Eng\Vissim - Installation Manual.pdf, in the chapter
"License provisioning".

1.13.7 Information about the PTV GROUP and contact data
Element

Description
Note: New or changed license information is transferred to the
dongle during the activation process. Each time a new license is
issued or licenses are changed, a contact person in your company
receives an e-mail with a ticket code similar to A43UT-PMXRC43D76-KF3AH-Y5GDQ (example). Using this ticket, you can start
the activation process, access new license information from the PTV
license server and transfer it to the dongle.

Start

Open Vissim with the license selected

Note: If your Vissim license does not include the Viswalk add-on module, you may still
perform a pedestrian simulation with up to 30 pedestrians.
Centralized license management
In certain working environments, an administrator has to preset the license selection
throughout the system. In this case, a licenses.data file is stored in folder
..\ProgramData\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim . The settings in this centrally stored
file also apply if your user- specific directory C:\Users\\AppData\Roaming\PTV
Vision\PTV Vissim contains a licenses.data file with other settings.
The icon on the button to delete the list of licenses indicates the centralized license
management.

You can only edit or delete this central file if you have administrator rights. If you delete this
file, license settings will subsequently be saved separately for each user of the computer. The
icon will no longer be displayed on the button if your license management is user-specific.
Please also refer to section System-wide license selection in the installation guide of Vissim.

1.13.7

Information about the PTV GROUP and contact data
You can find information about the PTV GROUP and contact data in Vissim and Viswalk.
Select the menu Help > About PTV Vissim.
Version number
The Internet page of PTV GROUP
Copyright details

2 Principles of operation of the program

2 Principles of operation of the program
You model your network in Vissim in a network editor. The network editor shows the precise
position of the network objects. By default, you edit the data for the network objects in lists. For
editing, you can use, for example, mouse functions, context menus and key combinations.
Note: A good knowledge of Windows is assumed for the operation of the program.

Tip: For your first steps in Vissim you can use simple example data, which were
installed with Vissim. By default, the example data are stored under:
Users\Public\Public documents\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim \Examples Demo\

2.1

Program start and start screen
The simplest way to start Vissim is by double-clicking on the Vissim icon on your desktop:

Tips: Other options to start Vissim:
via the Start menu
in Microsoft Windows 8, via the Start screen
In Microsoft Windows 7 or 8 add Vissim to the taskbar
via the command prompt (see "Starting PTV Vissim via the command prompt" on
page 54)
double-click a network file (*.inpx) in the Windows Explorer
as Microsoft Windows server from session 0. Vissim can then be executed on a
Microsoft Windows HPC server without a user session.
If after the initial start more than one license is found, after you start the program the window
License management - PTV Vissim opens.
1. Select the license of your choice (see "Managing licenses" on page 49).
Vissim opens. The Start sceen shows information on the program version:
Number of Vissim version
Installation folder
Tip: You can call up further program information in Vissim:
From the Help menu, choose > About.
From the Help menu, choose > License.
If Vissim writes important messages into the Messages window when importing a network file,
a corresponding message is displayed. You can open the Messages window immediately or
later on.

2.2 Starting PTV Vissim via the command prompt
Open immediately: In the window informing you of the messages, click the Open button.
Open later: In the window informing you of the messages, click the Open button. At a later
time of your choice, from the View menu, choose > Messages.
When you open a layout or network file that contains attributes of a more recent Vissim version
than the one you are using, you will not be able to read these attributes. The following
message is displayed:

2. Confirm with OK.
A window opens. Attributes that cannot be read are listed.
3. Confirm with OK.
If the defaults.inpx file in the ..\AppData\Roaming\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim directory is not readable, a corresponding message is displayed in the Messages
window.
If the ..\AppData\Roaming\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim directory does not
contain a defaults.inpx file, the defaults.inpx file in the Exe installation directory of Vissim is
used.
When you save the Vissim network as default network (see "Overview of menus" on page
113), the defaults.inpx file is saved to the ..\AppData\Roaming\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim
directory.
Vissim opens and shows the start page in a tab displayed in the foreground (see "Using the
Start page" on page 56).
4. If you want to go from the start page to the network editor, click the Network Editortab
below the start page.
Up to four instances of Vissim can be opened at the same time.
Note: Your user preferences are saved in the Windows registry and in the *.layx layout
file when Vissim is ended. The settings are used automatically when the program is
restarted.

2.2

Starting PTV Vissim via the command prompt
You can also start Vissim via the command prompt. Here, you can use parameters to control
various start options.

2.2 Starting PTV Vissim via the command prompt
1. Press the Windows key and the r key at the same time.
The Run window opens.
2. Click the Browse button.
The Browse window opens.
3. Browse to the Exe directory of your Vissim installation. This is by default:
32-bit: C:\Program Files (x86)\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim 10Exe\
64-bit: C:\Program Files\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim 10\Exe\
4. Double-click the VISSIM 10.exe file.
The Browse window closes. The path is entered in the Start window, in the Open box.
5. Next to the ..\VISSIM 10.exe file, into the Open box, enter a space.
6. After the space, enter the desired command line parameter:
Parameter
-automation

-b
-flush

-force3d
-o
-q

Description
Provides Vissim as a COM server in the automation mode for
COM scripts that are started subsequently.
Loads the specified network file *.inpx or *.inp. If the network
file has not been saved to the Exe directory, enter the path in
front of the .
If a path contains spaces, add the character " at the beginning
and end of the path, for example "C:\Program Files\PTV
Vision\PTV Vissim 9\Exe\Vissim90.exe" Busmall.inpx
Loads the specified layout file *.layx.
Immediately saves any debug messages to the file
%Tmp%\VISSIM\vissim_msgs.txt, instead of waiting until a
certain number of messages has been reached. Use this
parameter to ensure that the vissim_msgs.txt file contains all
messages, e.g. when looking for a program error and you want
to send all messages in a Hotline package to support. In this
case, use the -flush parameter together with the -o
parameter: ...-o -flush
-flush has an impact on the performance of Vissim. Therefore
do not use this parameter by default. Only use it when you want
to make sure that all messages are included in the vissim_
msgs.txt file.
Deactivates the testing of the supported OpenGL version.
Saves debug messages in the %tmp%\VISSIM\vissim_msgs.txt
file.
Enables the Quick mode during simulation. If the network file
has not been saved to the Exe directory,next to the , enter the path. -q must be followed by a space.

2.3 Using the Start page
Parameter
-regserver
-s

-unregserver
-version

Description
Registers Vissim as a COM server. If the registration has not
been successful, a message opens.
Batch operation: Vissim starts the simulation and closes after
the end of the simulation. If the network file has not been saved
to the Exe directory,next to the , enter the path.
-s must be followed by a space.
Deregisters Vissim as a COM server.
Opens the Start screen and shows information on the program
version

7. Confirm with OK.

2.3

Using the Start page
After you start the program, the start screen opens and the Vissim user interface with the Start
page tab is displayed.
The Start page allows you to have quick access to the following elements:
Recently used files
Support Services: Opens Help file, documents or web pages that provide support for
users
In the section on the right: Latest product news, interesting PTV news, information on
new service packs. This section may contain information that varies by region. Some of
it is available in different languages. Select the desired region (see "Selecting the
country for regional information on the start page" on page 142).

An Internet connection is required to make use of the full functionality of the Start page.

2.4 Becoming familiar with the user interface
When you open a *.inpx network file, the tab with the Start page is closed. The program
elements are then displayed based on the settings saved to the *.layx file.
When you choose File > New or click the New button
, the tab and Start page are moved to
the background and the Network editor is displayed in foreground.
Opening the Start page tab
From the View menu, choose > Start page.

2.4

Becoming familiar with the user interface
After you start the program, the start screen opens and the Vissim user interface with the Start
page tab is displayed (see "Using the Start page" on page 56).
Program elements of the user interface
The following figure shows the program interface with a *.inpx network file opened and
individually arranged program elements:

By default, the user interface contains the following elements for viewing, editing, and
controlling the network, data and simulation.

2.4 Becoming familiar with the user interface
Element
(1) Title bar

(2) Menu
bar

(3) Toolbars
(4) Network
Editors
(5) Network
objects toolbar

Description
Program name
Version number including service pack number
Currently open network file and path
Demo: a demo version is opened
Uni: a student version is opened
Viewer: a Vissim Viewer is opened
You can call program functions via the menus (see "Overview of menus" on
page 113).
Network files used most recently in Vissim are shown in the File menu. Click
on the entry if you want to open one of these network files.
You can call program functions via the toolbars. Lists and network editors have
their own toolbars (see "Using toolbars" on page 127).
Show the currently open network in one or more Network Editors. You can edit
the network graphically and customize the view in each Network Editor (see
"Using network editors" on page 72).
Network objects toolbar, level toolbar and background image toolbar are
shown together by default in a window on tabs.
Network objects toolbar (see "Using the Network object toolbar" on page 60):
Select the Insert mode for network object types
Select visibility for network objects
Select selectability for network objects
Editing graphic parameters for network objects
Show and hide label for network objects
Context menu for additional functions

(6) Levels
toolbar

Select visibility for levels (see "Using the Level toolbar" on page 65)
Select editing option for levels
Select visibility for vehicles and pedestrians per level

(7) BackSelect visibility for backgrounds (see "Using the background image toolground toolbar" on page 66)
bar
(8) Project
Displays projects, base networks, scenarios and modifications of scenario
explorer
management
(9) Lists
In lists, you show and edit different data, for example, attributes of network
objects. You can open multiple lists and arrange them on the screen (see
"Using lists" on page 89).
(10) Quick
Shows attribute values of the currently marked network object. You can
View
change attribute values of the marked network objects in the Quick View (see
"Using the Quick View" on page 66).

2.4 Becoming familiar with the user interface
Element
(11) Smart
Map

(12) Status
bar

Description
Shows a small scale overview of the network. The section displayed in the Network Editor is shown in the Smart Map by a rectangle or a cross-hair. You can
quickly access a specific network section via the Smart Map (see "Using the
Smart Map" on page 69).
Shows the position of the cursor in the Network Editor. Shows the current
simulation second during a running simulation.

Arranging program elements
You can arrange the program elements of the user interface according to your requirements,
such as by moving, displaying from other program elements or hiding from available program
elements (see "Changing the display of windows" on page 86).
You can also arrange program elements on multiple screens. Thus you can edit the network
and data in a structured way, such as by opening a network and adding more network objects,
building a new network from network objects, or running a simulation.
Saving the user interface layout
The layout of the user interface is saved by default when the network is saved. The program
elements are arranged accordingly the next time you open Vissim (see "Saving and importing
a layout of the user interface" on page 138).
Without a Vissim network file loaded, the Network Editor is empty.
If no network file is open, the Network Editors show an empty Vissim network (see "Using
network editors" on page 72).
Labeling mandatory fields and invalid data formats

Vissim highlights entry fields with a red

in the following cases:

Entry field is mandatory. You must enter a value or string in a valid data format.
Part of the value or string entered is in an invalid data format. For example, for the
attribute No of a link, a number must be entered. Characters are not accepted.
You must fill in all mandatory fields of a window to be able to close it with OK and make the
data available in Vissim.
Point the mouse pointer at the red triangle to open a quick info about the cause of error.
Quick info displays a description
For many program elements, a small window opens temporarily, if you point the mouse pointer
to the program element, e.g. a toolbar button or a network object type in the network object
toolbar. The window displays a brief description of the program element.

2.5 Using the Network object toolbar
If in an attribute list, you point the mouse pointer to an attribute name in a column header, a
small window opens displaying a description of the attribute (see "Structure of lists" on page
90).
In some windows, the
click the

2.5

symbol is displayed next to an entry box, list box or option. If you

symbol, a small window opens displaying information on the program element.

Using the Network object toolbar
The network object toolbar contains a list with the network object types. In a network editor,
you can use icons and the context menu to access functions for the display, selection, and
editing of network objects. Your settings are only active in the last network editor used. If you
click another network editor to activate it, in the network objects toolbar, the settings for this
network editor are displayed.
Tip: By default, the Network object toolbar, the Level toolbar, and the Background
toolbar are displayed together. Using the tabs at the bottom of a toolbar, you can switch
to another toolbar.

2.5 Using the Network object toolbar

Elements in the network objects toolbar
(1) Network object type button (visibility)
The icon (and name) of the network object type are shown in color: Network objects of this
network object type are shown in the Network editor.
The icon (and name) of the network object type are grayed out: Network objects of this network object type are not shown in the Network editor.
(2) Lock button (selectability)
The icon is shown only when you position the mouse pointer before the name or on the name
of the network object type or when the lock is locked.

2.5 Using the Network object toolbar
Lock unlocked: You can select and edit network objects of this network object type in
the Network editor.
Lock locked: You cannot select or edit network objects of this network object type in the
Network editor.
(3) Button with the name of the network object type (Insert mode)
Click the button with the name of the network object type to activate the Insert mode. If the
Insert mode is activated, the entire row is highlighted in orange.
You can insert new network objects of this network object type into network editors.
The network objects of this network object type are visible and selectable in all network
editors.
You can switch off visibility and selectability only for the other network object types.
(4) Selecting variants of a network object type
If you click the button of a network object type that has variants, the variant that is currently
selected is shown in brackets together with the icon . If you click the button or icon again, you
can select a different variant to add a network objects of this network object type to a network
editor.
Vehicle Routes:
Static
Partial
Partial PT
Parking Lot
Dynamic
Closure
Managed Lanes
Areas:
Polygon
Rectangle
Obstacles:
Polygon
Rectangle
Sections:
Polygon
Rectangle

2.5.1 Context menu in the network object toolbar
(5) Edit graphic parameters icon: Open preview and graphic parameters
This icon shows you how network objects of this type are displayed in the Network editor. The
icons of network object types, displayed differently depending on the attribute values, consist
of several colored bars. Four gray bars indicate that the Display type is activated (see
"Defining display types" on page 300).
Click the symbol to open a list of graphic parameters of the network object type. In the list, you
can select and edit graphic parameters (see "Editing graphic parameters for network objects"
on page 149), (see "List of graphic parameters for network objects" on page 152).
(6) Label icon
This icon is shown only when you position the mouse pointer on the name or next to the name
of the network object type.
Click this icon to show or hide the label of the network objects of this network object type:
Label is hidden
Label is shown

Context menu in the network object toolbar
In the context menu, you can select functions for visibility and selectability and call the list of
network objects of the selected network object type (see "Context menu in the network object
toolbar" on page 63).
Changing the display of the network object toolbar
You can customize the position, size, and visibility of the window (see "Changing the display
of windows" on page 86).

2.5.1

Context menu in the network object toolbar
1. In the network object bar, right-click the network object type for which you want to select a
command from the short menu.
2. Choose the desired entry from the context menu.

2.5.1 Context menu in the network object toolbar
Function
Show List

Open new
list
Create
Chart
Creating a
userdefined
attribute
Edit graphic
parameters
Make All
Types Visible
Make No
Types Visible
Make All
Types
Selectable
Make No
Types
Selectable
Selectability
Column
Label
Column
Graphic
Parameters
Column
All Object
Types
Vehicle
Object
Types Only
Pedestrian
Object
Types Only

Description
If you have already opened a list of the network object type, it will be
displayed in the foreground.
If no list of the network object type has been opened, the list will be opened
and displayed in the foreground.
Show the list with network objects of network object type, including the network objects' attributes If you have already opened a list of the network
object type, another list of the network object type will be opened.
Open the Create Chart window (see "Creating charts" on page 1053). In
the Network object type list box, the object type you right-clicked is
automatically selected.
Open the User-defined attribute window (see "Using user-defined
attributes" on page 200). In the Object type list box, the object type you
right-clicked is automatically selected.
Show list of graphic parameters of the network object type (see "Editing
graphic parameters for network objects" on page 149)
Display all network objects of all network object types in the Network editor

Hide all network objects of all network object types in the Network editor

All network objects of all network object types can be selected in the
Network editor
Not all network objects of all network object types can be selected in the
Network editor
Show or hide the Selectability column on the network objects toolbar
Show or hide the Label column on the network objects toolbar
Show or hide the Graphic parameters column on the network objects
toolbar
On the network objects toolbar, show all network objects types for vehicle
and pedestrian simulation
On the network objects toolbar, only show network object types for vehicle
simulation and hide network object types for pedestrian simulation
On the network objects toolbar, only show network object types for
pedestrian simulation and hide network object types for vehicle simulation

2.6 Using the Level toolbar

2.6

Using the Level toolbar
The Level toolbar shows the defined levels.
Tip: By default, the Network object toolbar, the Level toolbar, and the Background
toolbar are displayed together. Using the tabs at the bottom of a toolbar, you can switch
to another toolbar.

(1) Visibility button
Button is colored and activated: Static objects on this level are displayed in the Network
editor. In addition, on the network objects toolbar, the visibility of the network object types
must be active.
Button is gray and deactivated: Static objects on this level are not displayed in the Network
editor.
(2) Selectability button
activated: You can edit static objects on the this level.
deactivated: You cannot edit static objects on the this level.
(3) Buttons for vehicles and pedestrians
Display or hide vehicles or pedestrians in the active Network Editor at this level.
(4) All levels
Activate or deactivate visibility and selectability of static objects for all levels.
You can customize the position, size, and visibility of the level toolbar (see "Changing the
display of windows" on page 86).
Shortcut menu of the Level toolbar
From the shortcut menu, you can choose to open the Levels list (see "Defining levels" on page
868).

2.7 Using the background image toolbar

2.7

Using the background image toolbar
The background image toolbar shows the names of the loaded backgrounds in succession.
Tip: By default, the Network object toolbar, the Level toolbar, and the Background
toolbar are displayed together. Using the tabs at the bottom of a toolbar, you can switch
to another toolbar.

(1) Visibility button
Button is colored and open: background is displayed in the Network Editor. The visibility of
backgrounds must be activated in the network object toolbar.
Button is gray and closed: background is not displayed in the Network Editor.
(2) All backgrounds
Select or deselect visibility for all backgrounds.
You can customize the position, size, and visibility of the background image toolbar (see
"Changing the display of windows" on page 86).
Shortcut menu of Background images bar
From the shortcut menu, you can choose to open the Backgrounds list (see "Attributes of
background images" on page 378).

2.8

Using the Quick View
The Quick View contains a selection of attributes and attribute values for the network objects
currently selected. When you globally select network objects, your selection is the same in all
network editors and synchronized lists.
If several network objects of the same network object type are selected, the name of
the network object type is shown in the title bar of the Quick View.
If several network objects with different attribute values are selected, the symbol * is
shown with the different attribute values.
If several network objects of different network object types are selected, the following
message will be displayed in Quick View: Multi-type selection, no quick view available.

2.8.1 Showing the Quick View
If several network objects of different network object types are selected, no attribute values are shown and no name is shown in the title bar of the Quick View.
If synchronization is activated in a list with network objects and you select network
objects in the list, these are shown in all network editors and in Quick View (see "List
toolbar" on page 93).
Data cells that you can or cannot edit are highlighted in color or hatched (see "Structure of
lists" on page 90). Hatched cells: Irrelevant attribute values that due to other attribute values
have no effect.
You can select the attributes that are displayed (see "Selecting attributes for the Quick
view display" on page 67).
Using global selection, you can change the attribute values of all network objects (see
"Editing attribute values in the Quick view" on page 68).
You can customize the position, size, and visibility of the Quick View (see "Using toolbars" on page 127).
Tip: The Smart Map and Quick View are displayed in the same section by default. To
switch between the Smart Map and Quick View, use the tabs.

2.8.1

Showing the Quick View
In the View menu, choose > Quick View.
The Quick View opens as a tab. The position depends on how your user interface is set up.

2.8.2

Selecting attributes for the Quick view display
You can select network objects in a Network Editor or list and specify which attributes are
shown in the quick view. When you press the C TRL key to select multiple network objects,
these may belong to diifferent network object types.
1. If you want to select network objects in the Network editor, you must ensure that visibility
and selectability have been activated for the network object type in the network object
toolbar.
2. In a network editor or list, select at least one network object.
3. Select the Quick view.
4. Click on the

Attribute selection icon.

The Select Attributes window opens (see "Selecting attributes and subattributes for a list"
on page 106).
5. Select the desired attributes.
6. Deactivate the attributes that you do not want to display in the Quick view.
7. Confirm with OK.
The attributes selected and their values are displayed in the Quick view window, in the units
and sequence specified.

2.8.3 Editing attribute values in the Quick view
Note: The selection of attributes in the Quick view is saved separately for all objects in
a *.layx file (see "Saving and importing a layout of the user interface" on page 138).

2.8.3

Editing attribute values in the Quick view
1. Make sure that the network objects are selected in the network whose attribute values you
want to edit.
2. In the Quick view, mark one or more cells.
Note: If several network objects with different attribute values are selected, the *
symbol is shown instead of the value of the attribute.
3. Into the field selected, enter the value of your choice.
4. Confirm with Enter.
Notes: When entering numerical attribute values with a reference to length, time,
speed and acceleration, you must take the units into account:
If you enter just one digit, the value is interpreted in the format in which the attribute
is displayed. Example: If an attribute is displayed in the minutes format, the value 5
is read as 5 minutes. You can change the format in the attribute selection window
(see "Selecting attributes and subattributes for a list" on page 106).
You can enter a number with a unit. In this case, Vissim converts the value in such
a way that it is displayed accordingly in the selected format. You can enter length
units either with metrical (m, km) or imperial (ft, mi) units. For example, if an attribute is shown in the format Minutes, you can enter 2 h. After the confirmation, the
value 120 will be displayed.
The new attribute value is shown in all highlighted fields and applied to all objects that were
selected. This also applies to fields in which the symbol * referenced different attribute values.

2.8.4

Editing attribute values in the Quick view with arithmetic operations
Make sure that the network objects are selected in the network whose attribute values you
want to edit.
1. In the Quick view, mark one or more numerical cells.
2. In a marked cell, enter one of the below arithmetic operations:
Operation
Addition
Subtraction
Multiplication
Division
Raise to power
Setting the lower bound value

Syntax
=+2
=-2
=*2
=/2
=^2
=min2

2.9 Using the Smart Map
Operation
Setting the upper bound value
Use an exponential function
Take logarithm
Form reciprocal value

Syntax
=max2
=exp
=log
=1/

The operation is run for all marked cells with a numerical value. The result is entered as
attribute value.
Warning: If you have selected an alphanumerical cell, the text of the arithmetic
operation is entered in the cell!

2.9

Using the Smart Map
The Smart Map displays a small scale overview of the network. A rectangle shows the section
which is currently displayed in the Network Editor. If the zoom factor in the Network editor is so
large that the section in the Smart Map is not displayed as a rectangle, cross hairs are
displayed instead.
If a network is displayed in several Network Editors, the Smart Map uses rectangles to
indicate the different sections. The border line of the rectangle that displays the section of the
active Network Editor is formatted in bold.
Smart Map is linked to the Network editor. Modifications which are made in the Network editor
view have an effect on the Smart Map and vice-versa. For instance, if you zoom into the
network or move the current view, the position of the rectangle or cross hairs is moved in the
Smart Map as well. To change the network view, change the position or size of the colored
rectangle in the Smart Map.
Dynamic objects such as vehicles and pedestrians are not shown in the Smart Map. Network
objects selected in Network Editors are not highlighted in the Smart Map.
You can customize the position, size, and visibility of the Smart Map (see "Using toolbars" on
page 127).
Tip: The Smart Map and Quick View are displayed in the same section by default. To
switch between the Smart Map and Quick View, use the tabs.

2.9.1

Displaying the Smart Map
In the View menu, choose > Smart Map.
The Smart Map opens as a tab. The position depends on how your user interface is set up.

2.9.2

Displaying the entire network in the Smart Map
Note: If a network is displayed in several Network editors, the Smart Map uses
rectangles to indicate the different views.
1. Right-click on the Smart Map.

2.9.3 Moving the Network Editor view
2. Select Display Entire Network from the context menu.
The entire network is shown in the Smart Map.

2.9.3

Moving the Network Editor view
To move the view shown in the Network Editor, in the Smart Map, move the rectangle. If the
network is greatly enlarged in the Smart Map, the rectangle may lie outside of the Smart Map
and is not shown in the Smart Map (see "Displaying the entire network in the Smart Map" on
page 69).
Note: If a network is displayed in several Network editors, the Smart Map uses
rectangles to indicate the different views.
Note: Make sure that you choose the desired rectangle in the next steps.

1. In the Smart Map, point the mouse pointer to a position inside the colored rectangle.
The mouse pointer becomes a

symbol.

2. Hold down the mouse button.
3. Drag the rectangle to the position of your choice and release the mouse button.
The Network Editor view is adjusted according to the Smart Map.

2.9.4

Showing all Smart Map sections
Note: If a network is displayed in several Network editors, the Smart Map uses
rectangles to indicate the different views.
1. Right-click on the Smart Map.
2. From the shortcut menu, choose Zoom All Sections.
In the Smart Map, all colored rectangles of the Network Editors opened are displayed in
full.

2.9.5

Zooming in or out on the network in the Smart Map
1. Right-click on the Smart Map.
2. Select the entry Zoom In or Zoom Out in the context menu.
Tip: Alternatively, you can use:
the PAGE UP and PAGE DOWN keys
mouse scroll wheel
The network is adjusted in the Smart Map.

2.9.6 Redefining the display in the Smart Map

2.9.6

Redefining the display in the Smart Map
You can redefine the display shown in the Network Editor in 2D mode by drawing a new
rectangle in the Smart Map.
Note: If a network is displayed in several Network editors, the Smart Map uses
rectangles to indicate the different views.
1. Click on the Network Editor.
The Network Editor is activated.
2. In the Smart Map, point the mouse pointer to a position outside of all rectangles.
Note: If you want to start drawing the rectangle within a rectangle, you also have to
hold down the SHIFT key in the next step.
3. Hold down the mouse button.
The pointer appears as magnifier.
4. Drag the rectangle to the desired size and release the mouse button.
The network window view is adjusted according to the Smart Map.
Tip: Alternatively, you can select Redefine section in the context menu and draw a
rectangle.

2.9.7

Defining a Smart Map view in a new Network Editor
In the Smart Map, you can drag open a rectangle, automatically open a new Network Editor,
and show the network in the rectangle map section.
Note: If a network is displayed in several Network editors, the Smart Map uses
rectangles to indicate the different views.
1. Right-click on the Smart Map.
2. From the shortcut menu, choose Define Section in New Network Editor.
The mouse pointer becomes a cross.
3. In the Smart Map, point the mouse pointer to a corner of the desired map section.
4. Hold down the mouse button.
5. Drag the rectangle to the desired size and release the mouse button.
A new Network editor is opened. The network window view is adjusted according to the Smart
Map.

2.9.8

Moving the Smart Map view
1. Click into the Smart Map.
2. On your keyboard, press the arrow button of your choice.

2.9.9 Copying the layout of a Network Editor into Smart Map
Tip: Alternatively, you can hold down the mouse wheel.

The Smart Map view is moved.

2.9.9

Copying the layout of a Network Editor into Smart Map
The layout of the smart map is saved additionally to the layouts of the network editors in the
*.layx layout file. You can change the layout of the Smart Map by copying the layout of a
network editor.
1. Click on the Network Editor.
The Network Editor is activated.
2. Right-click into the Smart Map.
3. In the context menu, choose Apply Layout > From Current View.
The Smart Map is updated.

2.9.10

Displaying or hiding live map for the Smart Map
You can select a live map for the Smart Map and activate or deactivate it.
1. Right-click on the Smart Map.
2. From the Background Maps Configuration context menu, choose the desired entry:
Element
Bing Maps (aerophoto)
Open Street Map (Mapnik)
Disable Background Maps

Description
Display Bing Maps in Smart Map
Display Open Street Map (Mapnik) in Smart Map
Hide the currently selected live map from the Smart Map

The Smart Map is updated.

2.10 Using network editors
In Vissim you can display one or multiple network editors, e.g. to show the network in the 2D
and 3D mode or in different scales.
In each network editor you can display and edit the open network, zoom out for an overview or
zoom in to show more details. You can display the network with different graphic parameters
in the Network Editors; for example, two dimensional in one editor and three dimensional in
another.
If you run simulations, these are shown in the open Network Editors. You can control the
display of network objects for each network editor using the visibility (see "Using the Network
object toolbar" on page 60).
In Vissim, you can move and arrange Network editors to other positions on the desktop or
anchor them in other windows of Vissim (see "Changing the display of windows" on page 86).
The positions are saved in the *.layx file.

2.10.1 Showing Network editors
Above each open Network Editor, a toolbar with functions that you can use to control the
appearance of the network in that Network Editor is shown.
Note: The display in the network editor is linked to the display in Smart Map (see
"Using the Smart Map" on page 69). If you change the section in the Network editor, the
position of the colored rectangle or cross hairs in Smart Map also changes and viceversa.

2.10.1

Showing Network editors
In Vissim, you can show one or more Network editors. In each Network editor, you can open,
show and edit the network, reduce its size for an overview or enlarge it to show more details.
You can further watch dynamic objects, e.g. vehicles, pedestrians or signal heads changing
their status, during a simulation run.
In the View menu, choose > Open New Network Editor.
The new Network Editor opens as a tab. The position depends on how your user interface is
set up.
Tip: You switch between open lists and Network Editors with CTRL+TAB.

2.10.2

Network editor toolbar
Toolbar Name
button
Network editor layout
selection list

Edit basic
graphic parameters

Description

Keyboard /
mouse

Save specified network editor layout (see
"Saving the user interface layout" on page
138)
Select specified network editor layout
Edit basic graphic parameters (see "List of base
graphic parameters for network editors" on page
161)

2.10.2 Network editor toolbar
Toolbar Name
button
Toggle wireframe on

Description

Keyboard /
mouse

If wireframe display is enabled, disable
wireframe display.
The icon remains selected and the function
remains active, until you click the icon again.
You cannot activate or deactivate the Wireframe
view in 3D mode.
In the Wireframe view, only the middle lines are
shown for links and connectors. Standard colors:
Blue: Links
Pink: Connectors

In the Wireframe view in 3D mode, areas are
shown in the display type selected.
Toggle wireIf wireframe display is disabled, change to
frame off
wireframe display.
The icon remains selected and the function
remains active, until you click the icon again.
Toggle backIf background map display is enabled, hide the
ground maps on background map.
The icon remains selected and the function
remains active, until you click the icon again.
Toggle backIf the background map is hidden, display the
ground maps off background map (see "Using live maps from the
Internet" on page 369).
The icon remains selected and the function
remains active, until you click the icon again.
Legend on
The legend appears. The legend is displayed if
the Show legend attribute has been selected in
the graphic parameters of the network editor and
the Legend includes attribute has
been selected in the graphic parameters for at
least one network object type.
Legend off
Legend is hidden.

2.10.2 Network editor toolbar
Toolbar Name
Description
Keyboard /
button
mouse
Toggle selection If network objects are overlapping each other at TAB
the position that you clicked, select the next
network object.
For instance, for a link with the attribute Is
pedestrian area (option Use as pedestrian
area), you can then select the other respective
direction.
The icon is only active if network objects lie on
top of each other and one of the network objects
on the top is selected.
Copy selection Copy the selected network objects to the
Clipboard (see "Selecting and copying network
objects" on page 320)
Paste from clip- Paste network objects from the Clipboard into the
board
Network Editor (see "Pasting network objects
from the Clipboard" on page 321)
Synchronization: The display of the selected network objects is
Auto pan on
centered automatically in the Network Editor. If
you change the selection of network objects in a
different Network editor or synchronized list, the
section in the Network editor is automatically
adjusted to the new selection.
The icon remains selected and the function
remains active, until you click one of the
following icons:
the

Auto pan button again

Auto zoom button
Synchronization: In the Network Editor, the section is not
Auto pan off
automatically adjusted to the selected network
objects.

2.10.2 Network editor toolbar
Toolbar Name
Description
Keyboard /
button
mouse
Synchronization: Display the selected network objects centered in
Auto zoom on
the Network Editor and select the section so
large that all the selected network objects are
displayed. If you change the selection of network
objects in a different Network editor or
synchronized list, the section in the Network
editor is automatically adjusted to the new
selection.
The icon remains selected and the function
remains active, until you click one of the
following icons:
the
Synchronization:
Auto zoom off
Show entire network
Zoom in

Auto zoom button again

Auto pan button
In the Network Editor, the section is not automatically adjusted.
Choose a section size large enough to display
the entire network.
(see "Zooming in" on page 80)

PAGE DOWN or
move mouse
wheel
forward
Zoom out
(see "Zooming out" on page 80)
PAGE UP
or move
mouse wheel
backward
Previous view
Display previous view. You must have previously ALT+ left
displayed views.
arrow key
Next window sec- Display next view. You must have displayed
ALT+ right
tion
some previous views beforehand.
arrow key
Pan
Move entire network section. Selected and non- Arrow keys or
selected network objects are moved.
pressed
mouse wheel
The icon remains selected and the function
remains active, until you click the icon again.

2.10.2 Network editor toolbar
Toolbar Name
button
Rotate mode
(3D) on

Description
only in 3D mode: Tilt or rotate the network
display level vertically or horizontally (see
"Navigating in 3D mode in the network" on page
183).
The icon remains selected and the function
remains active, until you click one of the
following icons:
the

Rotate mode (3D) button again

the

Flight mode button

Keyboard /
mouse
Hold down
left mouse
button and
drag the
mouse, or
press the ALT
key + hold
mouse wheel
down

the
2D/3D button
Rotate mode
Rotate mode is not selected
(3D) off
Flight mode (3D) only in 3D mode: Move current camera position
on
over network (see "Flight over the network" on
page 185)
The icon remains selected and the function
remains active, until you click one of the
following icons:
the

Flight mode button again

the

Rotate mode (3D) button

the
2D/3D button
Flight mode (3D) Flight mode is not selected
off
Export image
Opens the Save as window. You can save a
(Screenshot)
screenshot of the Network editor as a graphic file
to a folder of your choice. You can saved data in
the following file formats:
*.png
*.jpg
*.tiff
*.bmp
*.gif

2.10.3 Network editor context menu
Toolbar Name
button
2D/3D

2D/3D

Edit 3D graphic
parameters

Selection of camera
position list

Description

Keyboard /
mouse

2D mode is currently displayed. Switch to 3D
mode
The icon remains selected and the function
remains active, until you click the icon again.
Currently shows 3D mode. Switch to 2D mode.
The icon remains selected and the function
remains active, until you click the icon again.
Edit 3D graphic parameters (see "Editing 3D
graphic parameters" on page 184), (see "List of
3D graphic parameters" on page 184)
The 3D graphic parameters only affect the
network objects in 3D mode.
only in 3D mode:
Saving camera positions
Select saved camera position

Tip: Alternatively, in the Camera Positions list, select one of the saved camera
positions. Then from the context menu, choose Apply to current Network Editor to
assign the camera position to the current Network editor.

2.10.3

Network editor context menu
The context menu in a network editor can display different features. They depend on whether
network objects have been selected, you right-click a network object, or right-click a section in
which no network object has been inserted.

2.10.3.1

Commands that do not depend on a previous selection of objects
You can always perform the following functions via the context menu, regardless of whether
you click with the right mouse button on a network object or whether network objects are
selected:
Add : Add a network object of the type selected in the Network
objects toolbar, if the network object does not have to be added to another network object.
Possible options are links, areas or nodes.
Paste: Paste network objects that you have copied to the Clipboard.
Read Additionally Here: Read a network file *.inpx additionally.
Show List: Open the network objects list of the network object type that is selected on the
Network Objects toolbar.
Map this Point to Background Position: Specify a point in the background map as a reference point (see "Mapping Vissim network to background position" on page 371).

2.10.3 Network editor context menu

2.10.3.2

Commands that depend on a previous selection of objects
The following functions are displayed in the context menu depending on whether network
objects are selected:
Network objects selected in Functions
the network editor
No network objects selected Show List: Show the network objects list of the network
object type that is selected for the Insert mode in the network
objects toolbar.
One network object is selecThe standard editing functions are shown, for example:
ted
Zoom To Selection
Delete
Duplicate
Copy
Paste
Edit
Show In List
Reset label position
Create Chart for Selected Objects
Network object type specific functions, e.g. Split link here
Multiple network objects of a
Only the standard editing functions that can be carried
network object type or difout when multiple network objects are selected are
ferent network object types
shown, for example:
are selected
Zoom To Selection
Delete
Duplicate
Copy
Paste
Show In List
Editing functions that are available for a single selected
network object are not displayed.
Only functions specific to the network object type that are
useful when multiple network objects are selected are
shown.

2.10.3.3

Deselecting all network objects
If network objects have been selected and you right-click a section (not a network object) into
which no network object has been inserted to open the shortcut menu, all network objects are
deselected.

2.10.4 Zooming in

2.10.4

Zooming in
To maximize the view, on the toolbar, click the respective button or use the scroll wheel of the
mouse.
Tip: You can also change the Network editor view using the Smart Map (see "Zooming
in or out on the network in the Smart Map" on page 70).

2.10.4.1

Enlarging the view to a certain section
In 2D mode, click the
click the

Zoom in symbol to enlarge the view of a specific section. In 3D mode,

Zoom in symbol to gradually enlarge the view.

1. On the Network editor toolbar, click the

Zoom in button.

The pointer appears as magnifier.
2. Click the position in the network from which you want to zoom into a section, and hold the
mouse button down.
3. Drag the desired section and release the mouse button.
The selected section will be zoomed in. The mouse pointer is reset to standard display.

2.10.4.2

Zooming in with a scroll wheel
1. In the Network editor, point the mouse pointer to the position you want to zoom in on.
Next, simultaneously hold down the SHIFT key. Then Vissim will enlarge the view faster.
2. Turn the scroll wheel forwards.
The view is zoomed in at the position of the mouse pointer.
If you zoom in until the maximum magnification, the contents of the Network editor are
displayed in black.
Tip: Alternatively, press the PAGE UP key to zoom in gradually.

2.10.5

Zooming out
To minimize the view, on the toolbar, click the respective button or use the scroll wheel of the
mouse.
Tip: You can also change the Network editor view using the Smart Map (see "Zooming
in or out on the network in the Smart Map" on page 70).

2.10.5.1

Zooming out using icon
In 2D mode, click the
mode, click the

Zoom out symbol to reduce the view of a specific section. In 3D

Zoom out symbol to gradually reduce the view.

2.10.6 Displaying the entire network
On the Network editor toolbar, click the

Zoom out button.

The view is reduced.

2.10.5.2

Zooming out using a scroll wheel
1. In the Network editor, point the mouse pointer to the position you want to zoom in on.
Next, simultaneously hold down the SHIFT key. Then Vissim will reduce the view faster.
2. Turn the scroll wheel backwards.
The view is zoomed out at the position of the mouse pointer.
Tip: Alternatively, you can zoom out by gradually. To do so, press the PAGE DOWN key.

2.10.6

Displaying the entire network
On the Network Editor toolbar, click the

Show entire network button.

The full network is shown in the network editor.
Tip: Alternatively you can also display the entire network by pressing the HOME key.

2.10.7

Moving the view
1. On the Network editor toolbar, click the
The Shift mode button is activated:
designates the Pan mode.

Shift mode button.
. The mouse pointer becomes a

symbol. This

2. Click any position in the network and keep the left mouse button pressed.
3. Drag the view to the desired position and release the left mouse button.
The view is shifted.
4. In the Network Editor, on the toolbar, click the
mode.
The Shift mode button is deactivated:
depiction.

Shift mode button to deactivate the 'Pan'

. The mouse pointer is reset to the standard

Note: Only the display is shifted, the network itself is not. Coordinates remain
unchanged.

2.10.8 Defining a new view
Tips: Alternatively, you have these possibilities to shift the view:
Hold down the middle mouse button or the scroll wheel and move the view.
Press an arrow key on your keyboard. The section moves to a greater extent if you
simultaneously hold down the SHIFT key.
You can also move the view in the Smart Map (see "Moving the Network Editor
view" on page 70).

2.10.8

Defining a new view
In the Network Editor, you can specify a different network section by dragging open a
rectangle in the Smart Map (see "Using the Smart Map" on page 69).
1. In the Smart Map, click the position at which you want to set a corner of the new display
outside of a colored rectangle and hold down the left mouse button.
The mouse pointer becomes a

symbol.

2. Diagonally drag open the rectangle of your choice.
3. Release the mouse button.
The Network Editor view is adjusted according to the Smart Map.

2.10.9

Displaying previous or next sections
If you have changed the section in the network editor, you can return to the previous section
and display it. If a previous section is displayed, you can go to the next section and display it.
1. In the Network editor, on the toolbar, click the

Previous view button.

The previous section is displayed.
Tip: Alternatively, you can change to the previous view with the ALT + LEFT ARROW
key.
2. In the Network Editor, click on the icon

Next window section in the toolbar.

The next section is displayed.
Tip: Alternatively, you can change to the previous view with the ALT + RIGHT ARROW
key.

2.10.10 Zooming to network objects in the network editor
In the network editor you can select the size of the network so that the selected network
objects are automatically completely displayed.
In the context menu, select Zoom To Selection.

2.10.11 Selecting network objects in the Network editor and showing them in a list

2.10.11 Selecting network objects in the Network editor and showing them in a list
In the network editor you can select network objects of a particular network object type and
show them, together with their attributes, in a list of network objects with the particular network
type.
1. In the Network Editor, right-click the network object of your choice.
2. From the context menu, choose entry Show In List.
The list of defined network objects for the network object type opens.
The objects selected in the Network editor are marked in the list, if the list is synchronized (see
"List toolbar" on page 93).

2.10.12 Using named Network editor layouts
The layout of a Network editor is defined by graphic parameters and settings in the network
objects toolbar. You can assign the current layout of a Network editor a name, under which
you can import the layout again later on. You can save these so-called named Network editor
layouts to the *.layx file. In a Network editor, you can choose a Network editor layout from all
the named ones available, to change the graphic parameters and network object toolbar
settings of your window accordingly.

2.10.12.1 Creating a Network editor layout
1. Adapt the graphic parameters of a Network editor via its toolbar and/or the network objects
toolbar (see "Editing base graphic parameters for a network editor" on page 161), (see
"Using the Network object toolbar" on page 60).
2. On the Network editor toolbar, in the Network editor layout selection box, enter a unique
name.
3. Confirm with Enter.
On the toolbar of all Network editors, in the Select layout list box, the new network editor
layout is displayed and can be selected.

2.10.12.2 Assigning a Network editor layout
1. In the Network editor, in the NetworkEditorLayout list, click the

symbol.

2. Select the Network editor layout of your choice.
The network editor layout is assigned to the network editor and the display is adjusted. The
new settings are shown on the network objects toolbar.

2.10.12.3 Saving Network editor layouts
1. In the menu, select File > Save Layout as.
2. Enter a unique name.
3. Click the Save button.

2.11 Selecting simple network display
The current layout of the entire Vissim user interface, and thus all named Network editor
layouts, are saved to the *.layx layout file.
If in the User Preferences, the option Auto-save layout when network file (inpx) is saved is
selected, the layout file is saved automatically under the name of the currently loaded network
file, each time the network file is saved (see "Specifying automatic saving of the layout file
*.layx" on page 145).

2.10.12.4 Reading in saved Network editor layouts additionally
You may read all Network editor layouts, saved to a *.layx file, into your currently opened file.
Then you can apply these Network editor layouts to the Network editors in the file currently
open.
1. From the File menu, choose > Read Additionally > Named Network Editor Layouts.
2. Select the desired *.layx file of your choice.
3. Click the Open button.
The network editor layouts are read in. On the toolbar of the Network editors opened and the
Network editors you open later on, in the Select layout list, you can select the Network editor
layouts read in.

2.10.12.5 Deleting a named Network editor layout
1. On the Network editor toolbar, right-click in the Network editor layout selection list box.
2. Position the mouse pointer on the Delete entry in the context menu.
The named Network editor layouts are displayed in the context menu.
3. Click the desired Network editor layout in the context menu.
4. Confirm with Yes.

2.11 Selecting simple network display
To gain a better overview of complex networks, switch to the simple network display that hides
all network objects lying on links, areas, ramps and stairways.
1. In the View menu, select > Simple Network Display.
Tip: Alternatively, press CTRL+N or on the Edit toolbar, click
Display.

Simple Network

The following network objects and their labels are hidden in the Simple Network Display. This
is also the case for network objects of the network object type selected during a simulation run
in the network objects toolbar, which allows network objects to be added:

2.12 Using the Quick Mode
Desired Speed Decisions
Reduced Speed Areas
Conflict Areas
Priority Rules
Stop Signs
Signal Heads
Detectors
Vehicle Inputs
Vehicle Routes
Parking Lots
Public transport stops

Public Transport Lines
Nodes
Data Collection Points
Vehicle Travel Times
Queue Counters
Flow bundles
Pavement Markings
Elevators
Pedestrian Inputs
Pedestrian Routes
Pedestrian Travel Times

In the Simple Network Display, all other objects are displayed, if you do not individually set
them to invisible:
Links
Sections
Backgrounds
3D Traffic Signals
Static 3D Models

Vehicles In Network
Pedestrians In Network
Areas
Obstacles
Ramps & Stairs

2. To show the hidden objects again, from the View menu, choose > Simple Network Display
again.

2.12 Using the Quick Mode
In the Quick Mode, all dynamic objects (e.g. vehicles, pedestrians, dynamic labels, and colors)
are hidden in all network editors. In addition, in the Quick Mode, list windows and the Quick
view are only then updated when you scroll or click in them. The Messages window is not
updated and does not display any messages. This allows for a maximum simulation speed.
The simulation speed set is not used.
In the View menu, choose > Quick Mode.
Tip: Alternatively, press CTRL+Q or on the Edit toolbar, click

Quick Mode.

You can deactivate the Quick Mode again:
Press CTRL+Q again.
From the View menu, choose Quick Mode.
Again click the

Quick Mode icon.

All dynamic objects are shown again. All lists and the Quick view are updated.

2.13 Changing the display of windows

2.13 Changing the display of windows
You can significantly change the display of windows showing network editors, lists, network
object toolbars, the Smart Map and Quick View by using standard program functions:
Name or function
Minimize

Symbol Description
Minimize user interface

Maximize

Maximize user interface

Auto Hide: hide

The window is hidden. A tab with the name of the hidden
window is displayed at the edge of the user interface.
At the edge of the user interface, point the mouse to the
tab of the desired window.
The window is permanently shown.

Use Auto Hide to show
hidden window again
Auto Hide: show permanently
Close
Move

Anchoring
Releasing from
anchors
Change size

The window closes.
Moving and rearranging a window in Vissim or arranging
a windows outside of Vissim
(see "Arranging or freely positioning program elements in
PTV Vissim" on page 87)
Anchor windows or show them together in one section
(see "Anchoring windows" on page 87)
Release anchored window
(see "Releasing windows from the anchors" on page 88)
Change the size of the window using the corner drag
points. The size of windows cannot always be changed.

You can restore the default settings (see "Resetting menus, toolbars, shortcuts, and dialog
positions" on page 146).

2.13.1

Showing program elements together
If you open several program elements, you can group them into one area, for example:
multiple lists
multiple network editors
one or multiple lists together with one or multiple network editors
the Smart Map together with the Quick View
network objects toolbar and level toolbar together with the background image toolbar
You cannot show lists and network editors together with the Smart Map, the Quick or a toolbar
in one area.
Tabs under each area display the program elements inside:

2.13.2 Arranging or freely positioning program elements in PTV Vissim
For lists, the name of the network object types or base data type
For Network editors, numbers in the order they were opened
Smart Map and Quick View
Network object toolbar, level toolbar, background image toolbar: Network object types,
levels, background images
The name of the visible program element is highlighted in the tab. The name of the active
program element is highlighted in the title bar.
You can change the arrangement of program elements (see "Changing the display of
windows" on page 86) , (see "Anchoring windows" on page 87) , (see "Arranging or freely
positioning program elements in PTV Vissim" on page 87).

2.13.2

Arranging or freely positioning program elements in PTV Vissim
You can move and arrange program elements in Vissim or move them on your screen or
screens independently of Vissim. You can also group multiple program elements together, for
example, multiple lists or multiple network editors.
Note: Changing program elements or shortcut keys can make it more difficult for you to
find and use commands. The documentation and the PTV Vision Support assume that
the standard settings are used.
1. Click the title bar of the program element, keep the mouse button held down, and drag the
program element to the position of your choice.
The icon for anchoring the program element is shown until you drag the program element
out of Vissim.
2. Release the mouse button.
Outside of Vissim, the display of the program element floats freely.
You can restore the default settings (see "Resetting menus, toolbars, shortcuts, and dialog
positions" on page 146).

2.13.3

Anchoring windows
You can anchor windows such as network editors, lists, bars, Smart Map and Quick View or
display them together in one area. Vissim assists you with visual aids. An icon and a colored
shadow show you where you can anchor the window.
Note: Changing program elements or shortcut keys can make it more difficult for you to
find and use commands. The documentation and the PTV Vision Support assume that
the standard settings are used.
1. Click on the title bar or the tab for the window and hold the mouse button pressed.
If you move the mouse, an icon is displayed, which shows you the possible anchoring
positions:

2.13.4 Releasing windows from the anchors
Element

Description
Outer icons: This anchors the window in the destination area at
one of the four edges.
Icon in the middle: This anchors the window as a tab.
Note: You cannot anchor all windows with all other windows
as a tab. You cannot anchor network editors and lists with the
Quick View, Smart Map, Network objects toolbar, Levels
toolbar or the Background toolbar as a tab.
If anchoring as a tab is not possible, the following symbol is
displayed:
Anchoring the window at the top edge of the destination area

Anchoring the window at the bottom edge of the destination area

Anchoring the window at the left-hand edge of the destination area

Anchoring the window at the right-hand edge of the destination area

2. Drag the mouse pointer to the desired icon.
The desired target area is given a colored shadow.
Note: The icon which you drag with the mouse pointer is decisive, not the position of
the window.
3. Release the mouse button.
The window is anchored at the desired position.
You can restore the default settings (see "Resetting menus, toolbars, shortcuts, and dialog
positions" on page 146).
If several window are anchored together in an area, they are shown as tabs.

2.13.4

Releasing windows from the anchors
You can release anchored windows from each other.
1. If in a window, you have attached multiple tabs next to each other and want to detach them,
click the title bar and hold down the mouse button.
2. If in a window, you have attached multiple tabs next to each other and want to detach one,
click the tab window and hold down the mouse button.
3. Drag the mouse pointer to the desired area of the desktop and release the mouse button.

2.13.5 Restoring the display of windows
The window is released from the anchor.
You can restore the default settings (see "Resetting menus, toolbars, shortcuts, and dialog
positions" on page 146).

2.13.5

Restoring the display of windows
1. Choose Edit > User Preferences.
The User Preferences window opens.
2. Choose the entry GUI > General.
3. Click the Reset dialog positions button.
The next time you start Vissim without a network, the default settings are used to arrange the
windows.

2.13.6

Switching between windows
If you have opened multiple windows, you can switch between them to place another window
in the foreground. This also includes the start page. The View toolbar list shows the windows
opened in Vissim.
On the View toolbar, in the Windows Selection list, click the window of your choice.
The window selected is placed in the foreground and is activated.

2.14 Using lists
In a list, you can show all objects of a type together with a selection of the object's attributes
(see "Opening lists" on page 92):
You can display input attributes, e.g. for links these are the length, name, link behavior
type, display type, etc. You can change input attributes in the list, e.g. when you create
new network objects or make changes later on (see "Editing attributes of network objects"
on page 330), (see "Selecting and editing data in lists" on page 96). This is not always possible during a simulation run. In this case, a corresponding message is displayed when
you try to do so.
You can display attributes calculated from input attributes, e.g. a distance or travel time
measurement. The values of these attributes cannot be changed in the list.
You can display result attributes, whose values are determined during a simulation run
(see "Displaying result attributes in attribute lists" on page 957). Result attributes can have
subattributes, e.g. a different value per simulation run and time interval. The values of
these attributes cannot be changed in the list.
There are two types of lists:
"Normal" attribute lists contain the attributes of network objects and base data. You can
choose these lists from the Lists menu (see "Opening lists" on page 92): A list contains a
row for each object of the respective type, e.g. for a defined link. There is one column for

2.14.1 Structure of lists
each attribute, e.g. name or length of the link. There is also a column for each subattribute,
e.g. time intervals or vehicle classes. "Normal" attribute lists can be extended to coupled
lists, if the network object type has relations to other objects, e.g. a link to lanes (see
"Using coupled lists" on page 111).
To select result lists, from the Lists menu, choose > Results or from the Evaluation menu,
choose > Result Lists (see "Configuring evaluations of the result attributes for lists" on
page 954): A results list contains rows for each object of the respective type per time interval of each simulation run. Moreover, you can show additional rows for static results: the
mean, the standard deviation and minimum and maximum values of all simulation runs.
You can further view the mean, the standard deviation, the minimum and maximum values
and total of all time intervals. Only the subattributes Vehicle class or Pedestrian class are
shown in the attribute columns.

2.14.1

Structure of lists

Element
Description
(1) Title bar
Name of list
Auto Hide: Hide and show lists
Close list
(2) Toolbar Functions for displaying and editing (see "List toolbar" on page 93)

2.14.1 Structure of lists
Element
Description
(3) Column
Short name of attribute
header
Sort, move and mark columns
Functions are available via the context menu (see "Editing lists and data via
the context menu" on page 99)
To open a quick info with an attribute description, point the mouse pointer to
the attribute name in the column header.
Right-click the column header to select the data in the column.
(4) Data
Attribute values. Functions are available via the context menu.
If you point to the first column of a list with the cursor, the row number is shown.
(5) Orange Data is selected in one or more cells, rows or columns, and can, for example,
cells
be copied or changed.
White cells Values you can change, e.g. of input attributes
In cells for selecting values, the button is shown when you click in the
cell.
For cells that allow the direct entry of values, click the cell and enter the
data.
Gray cells Values of calculated attributes or result attributes. You cannot change them.
Hatched
Values of irrelevant attributes with no impact due to the values of other attribcells
utes, e.g. a Wiedemann 74 parameter, when for a driving behavior, the type
Wiedemann 99 is selected.
(6) Red,
Only for conflict areas (see "Defining the right of way at conflict areas" on page
green, yel- 530)
low cells
(7) Cells
For some attributes, in the cells, in list boxes, you can select or add attribute
with list
values.
boxes
If you point the cursor to a cell that contains a selection list, the
button is
displayed.
Click the
symbol to select attribute values in the list box or click Add to
define a new attribute.
Tip: If no cell is selected, alternatively, double-click a cell. A list box
opens. Select the entry of your choice.
Note: Do not double-click a cell that is already selected! By doing so, you
add the first entry of the list box into the cell.

2.14.2 Opening lists
Element
Description
(8) Options Some cells of attributes contain a list of options that allows you to select or add
attribute values. Options will be displayed, if the selection of multiple entries is
allowed.
(9) Tab

If this option is selected, the entry is considered.
When multiple lists are open, they are shown as tabs. You can thus quickly
show the desired list in the foreground.
Tip: Alternatively you can press CTRL+TAB. You thus switch between
open lists and Network Editors.

2.14.2

Opening lists
You can open lists using the following elements of the user interface: If a list of the same type
is open, this list will be shown in the foreground.
Element
Lists menu
Menu: Base Data,
Traffic, Signal
Control,
Evaluation,
Presentation
Context menu in
the Network
objects toolbar >
Show List
Shortcut menu of
the Level toolbar >
Show List
Shortcut menu of
the Background
image toolbar >
Show List
Shortcut menu in
Network editor >
Show In List

Description
If no list of the same type has been opened yet, a list showing all objects
of the selected entry will be displayed.
Opens a list with all objects of the selected entry

Opens a list with the network objects, attributes and attribute values to
the selected network object type

Opens the Levels list with the defined levels, attributes and attribute
values
Opens the Backgrounds list with the defined backgrounds, attributes
and attribute values

If no network object is selected in the Network Editor: a list of network objects, attributes and attribute values of the network object
type opens, which is selected in the network object toolbar.
If one or more network objects of a network object type is selected in
the Network Editor: A list with the network objects, attributes and
attribute values to the selected network object type opens. The selected network objects are marked in the list.

2.14.3 Selecting network objects in the Network editor and showing them in a list
Element
Tabs with list
names
Network editor

Description
If you open additional lists, these are shown as tabs at the bottom of the
first list.
For network object types, whose attributes you can only edit in the
network objects list of the respective object type: Double-click the
network object to open the list.

If you open a list with network objects, you activated synchronization in this list, and in the
Network editor, you selected the network objects of the network object type of the list, these
network objects are highlighted in the list.
Tips:
You can open multiple lists and arrange them on the user interface or on multiple
screens.
You can select which attributes are displayed in the list.

2.14.3

Selecting network objects in the Network editor and showing them in a list
In the network editor you can select network objects of a particular network object type and
show them, together with their attributes, in a list of network objects with the particular network
type.
1. In the Network Editor, right-click the network object of your choice.
2. From the context menu, choose entry Show In List.
The list of defined network objects for the network object type opens.
The objects selected in the Network editor are marked in the list, if the list is synchronized (see
"List toolbar" on page 93).

2.14.4

List toolbar
Your settings are saved to a *.layx file as soon as you save the network file.
Icon Name

Description
Save named list layout (see "Using named list layouts" on page
104)
Select named list layout and apply to list

List layout selection
list
Attribute selec- Open the Select Attributes window and select attributes which are
tion
shown column by column in the list or whose columns you want to
hide (see "Selecting attributes and subattributes for a list" on page
106).

2.14.4 List toolbar
Icon Name
Add

Description
Adds a new row to the list to create a new object in it. If there is a window for the object in which attributes can be entered, this window
automatically opens, provided that the respective setting has been
selected under user preferences (see "Right-click behavior and
action after creating an object" on page 143).
Edit
For the object selected, opens the window in which you can edit
attributes of the object. If there is no such window for the network
object type or the base data type, the symbol is not shown.
Delete object(s) Deletes selected objects from the list. If the object is a network
object, it is also deleted from the network editor. Conflict areas
cannot be deleted.
Duplicate object Copies the object from the list. If the object is a network object, it is
(s)
also copied in the network editor. The object is inserted as a
duplicate:

Sort ascending

In the list, in a new row, with a new unique number.
If the object is a network object, in the network editor, the
duplicate is placed on the original network object and can
then be moved.
Conflict areas cannot be duplicated.
Sorts a list by one or multiple columns in ascending order (see
"Sorting lists" on page 102)
Sorts a list by one or multiple columns in descending order

Sort descending
Synchronization Synchronizes list with all network editors, other synchronized lists
and the Quick View. If you select or deselect network objects in the
list, these are also selected or deselected in other windows.
If the
Auto pan icon is selected in a Network editor, the selected
network objects are shown automatically centered in this Network
editor. If you change the selection of network objects in a different
Network editor or synchronized list, the section in the Network editor
is automatically adjusted to your selection.
If the
Auto zoom icon is selected in a Network editor, the
selected network objects are shown centered in this Network editor,
and the section is selected so large that all selected network objects
are shown. If you change the selection of network objects in a
different Network Editor or synchronized list, the section in the
Network Editor is automatically adjusted to your selection.

2.14.4 List toolbar
Icon Name

No synchronization

Relations list

Copy
Save to database

Save to file

Selected:
Autosave after
simulation

Description
You can synchronize the result lists of simulation runs, vehicles in
the network, pedestrians in the network, and paths. Synchronization,
however, only has an effect on the Quick View (see "Using the Quick
View" on page 66). For other result lists, the Synchronization icon is
not available.
The list is not synchronized with other program elements.
Synchronization is not selected as standard in lists with
measurement results.
In simple lists: Select a relation for the objects of the list with
other objects, and show the other objects in a coupled list on the
right, e.g. the lanes of a link.
In coupled lists: Select a relation for the objects of the left list with
other objects, and show these objects in the list on the right (see
"Using coupled lists" on page 111). The entry Single List only
displays the left list and hides the right list with the relation.
Copy content of tab-separated rows selected to the Clipboard.
Save list as database. Opens the Evaluations (Database) window.
A database connection must be configured (see "Configuring the
database connection for evaluations" on page 958).
In the Database Connection section, select > Data Link Properties...: the database connection last set
In the Database table section, select > Table name: by default
name of current table. Avoid using spaces in a table name.
Opens a window where you can specify a file name under which the
list is saved as a Vissim attribute file *.att. In the Attribute file, the
data is output in rows and is separated by a semi-colon for each
column.
In the header of the attribute file, the legend specifies the attributes
in the attribute file, listing their short and long name. The short and
long names are displayed on the GUI in the language currently
selected under User Preferences.
For the network object type of the current list, data and result
attributes of the simulation run completed are automatically saved to
the current evaluation output directory, to a file and/or database. At
the end of the simulation, the list must be open to save the data.
If under Result Management, you selected Keep result attributes
of previous simulation runs, Vissim will add the number of the
simulation run to each file name, according to the following
convention:
__.att.

2.14.5 Selecting and editing data in lists
Icon Name

Not selected

Show passive
conflict areas

Create UserDefined Attribute

2.14.5

Description
If under Result Management, you selected Delete previous
simulation runs and only perform one simulation run, the naming
convention is as follows:
__001.att.
If under Result Management, you selected Delete previous
simulation runs and using the parameter Number of runs:, perform
several simulation runs, the data of each simulation run is saved to
a separate file. The file names then include the number of the
respective simulation run.
For automatic output into a database, the database configuration is
used that has been defined for evaluations (see "Configuring the
database connection for evaluations" on page 958).
For the network object type of the current list, do not automatically
save data and result attributes of the simulation after the expiry of
the simulation.
only for conflict areas: shows also the passive, yellow (by default)
conflict areas in the list which have no effect on traffic
only for conflict areas: shows only active conflict areas (which have
no effect on traffic)
Open the User-Defined Attribute window and create an attribute
(see "Using user-defined attributes" on page 200)

Selecting and editing data in lists
To a large extent, you can select the common functions and key combinations in spreadsheet
programs and subsequently edit, copy, delete or paste the data. Some attributes cannot be
changed; these cells are displayed in gray in the lists.

2.14.5.1

List sections in which you can select data
You can select the following areas in lists:
all cells
an individual cell
adjacent cells in multiple rows
adjacent cells in multiple columns
adjacent cells in multiple rows and columns
non-adjacent cells
row by row

2.14.5 Selecting and editing data in lists
column by column
non-adjacent rows or columns
You edit data in lists depending on their data type. The following types of cells exist:
Cells, in which you enter text or values
Cells, in which you select one or more options

or for which the selection can be can-

celed
Cells, in which you select one or multiple entries from list box

2.14.5.2

Entering text or values in a cell
To change the text or value of cell that can be edited, you have to mark the cell.
1. Click or double-click into the desired cell.
An entry is marked.
When you click or double-click a selected cell, the cell content is marked and an insertion
marker is displayed at the end of the cell.
2. In the cell, click the position to which you want to move the insertion marker.
3. Enter the desired data.
4. To complete your entry, press ENTER.
The entry is completed.
5. If desired, click another cell.

2.14.5.3

Entering text or values in multiple cells
If you highlight multiple cells that contain similar data, changing the data in one cell will
automatically change the data in all highlighted cells.
1. Mark the desired cells in the list.
2. Enter the desired data.
3. To complete your entry, press ENTER.
4. If desired, click another cell.

2.14.5.4

Selection options in cells
Using the mouse, you can only select options for individual data sets or you can cancel the
selection.
Click in the list of the desired option:
The option is selected.
The option is not selected.

2.14.5 Selecting and editing data in lists
Using the keyboard, you can also activate or deactivate options for multiple cells at the same
time.
1. Mark the desired cells in the list.
2. Press the space bar.
All options are selected.
Not all options are selected.

2.14.5.5

Selecting data in cells via list boxes
In cells with list boxes, you can click a value in the list box (which contains various values), e.g.
a reference to other objects. Cells with list boxes are marked with the button

1. Point the cursor at the right border of the cell.
2. Click on the

symbol.

A list box opens.
You have the following options to highlight the entry:
Click the desired entry.
The entry is selected.
Enter the first or the first few characters of the entry.
The first entry that begins with the characters entered is selected.

2.14.5.6

Defining data in cells with list boxes
In some cells that contain list boxes, you can create a new entry. The first entry of the list boxes
is Add.
1. If the desired cell is not selected, double-click the cell. If the desired cell is selected, click
the cell.
A list box opens.
2. In the cell, in the list box, click the first entry Add.
If there is a window for editing the attributes of this object type, and it should be shown
according to your user preferences, this window opens. You can enter attributes for the new
object. Otherwise, the new object is created with the default values.
3. If the window for editing has opened, enter the data of your choice.
4. Confirm with OK.

2.14.5.7

Opening the Edit window from a list
If for a network object, there is an Edit window, in the Edit window, you have the following options to open an attribute list:

2.14.6 Editing lists and data via the context menu
Double-click the row header of the desired entry.
Double-click a non-editable cell of the desired row.
In the row of your choice, double-click a non-editable cell next to the selected option
the deselected option .

2.14.6

Editing lists and data via the context menu
Using shortcut menus, you can edit lists and data in lists. The following elements of a list have
a shortcut menu:
column header
row header
cells
Notes:
Depending on the cells, network object type or base data you selected, some functions might by grayed out or hidden and thus cannot be used.
Depending on the network object type or base data used, the context menu also
contains functions that only allow you to edit specific attributes. These functions are
described under network object types and base data (see "Creating and editing a
network" on page 314), (see "Base data for simulation" on page 192).

2.14.6.1

Functions available in the shortcut menu of the column header
If you have selected multiple columns and right- click the column header of one of these
columns, the selection remains unchanged. The context menu opens.The function you select
has an impact on the selected columns.
If you have selected multiple columns and right-click the column header of a column not yet
selected, this column will be selected and the selection of the other columns will be undone.
The context menu opens.The function you select has an impact on the selected column.
Function
Sort
Ascending
Sort Descending
Adding aliases

Editing
aliases

Description
Sorts a list by one or multiple columns in ascending order
Sorts a list by one or multiple columns in descending order
Opens the Alias window (see "Using aliases for attribute names" on page
209). The corresponding network object type and the attribute name will be displayed. These entries cannot be changed. In Name field an Alias is suggested.
You can overwrite this value.
For the Alias column only: Opens an Alias window(see "Using aliases for attribute names" on page 209). You can change the name of the alias.

2.14.6 Editing lists and data via the context menu
Function
Removing
aliases
Set
Optimum
Width for
All
Columns
Set
Optimum
Column
Width
Adjust
Column
Widths To
Window
Size
Remove
Column
Add
Column To
The Left
Attribute
Selection

2.14.6.2

Adjusts column width for each selected column to accommodate the longest
column title and longest cell entry

Adjusts column width for all columns to the window width.

Hides the column.
Opens a window that allows you to select an attribute for a column that is inserted to the left of a highlighted column.
Opens a window that allows you to select attributes for all columns.

Functions available in the shortcut menu of the row header
Function
Add

Edit
Delete
Duplicate

Create
UserDefined
Attribute

100

Description
For the Alias column only: You may remove the alias. The original attribute
name is shown in the column header.
Adjusts column width for each column to accommodate the longest column title
and longest cell entry

Description
Add a new row with a new object and selects the row. Some attribute values
are set by default. For other attribute values, a window is opened. You can
then change attribute values.
The Add command is not available for all object types.
A window opens that allows you to edit the input attributes of the object.
The Edit function is not available for all object types.
Deletes all objects in the rows selected.
Copies the object and its data and inserts a copy of it into a new row. For
objects with a geographic position in the network, the copy lies exactly on the
position of the original.
Opens the Create User-Defined Attribute window and automatically adopts the
object type of the list (see "Using user-defined attributes" on page 200).

2.14.6 Editing lists and data via the context menu
Function
Zoom
Create
Chart

2.14.6.3

Description
Sets the section in the network editor last active, so that the selected network
objects are all fully displayed.
The Create Chart window opens. The network objects selected in the list are
displayed in the Create Chart window.

Functions available in the shortcut menu of cells
Function
Copy cells
Paste cells

Description
Copies the cells selected to the Clipboard. You can paste the data into Vissim
or another program.
Pastes the content of the Clipboard to where the cursor is or to a selected
area.
Note: Make sure that the data and rows copied to the Clipboard match
the data and cells of the list you want to paste the Clipboard content to.

Sort Ascend- Sorts a list by one or multiple columns in ascending order
ing
Sort DesSorts a list by one or multiple columns in descending order
cending
Edit
A window opens that allows you to edit the input attributes of the object.
The Edit function is not available for all object types.
Delete
Deletes all objects in whose rows at least one cell is selected.
Duplicate
Copies the object and its data and inserts a copy of it into a new row. For
objects with a geographic position in the network, the copy lies exactly on the
position of the original.
Create
Opens the Create User-Defined Attribute window and automatically adopts
Userthe object type of the list (see "Using user-defined attributes" on page 200).
Defined
Attribute
Zoom
Sets the section in the network editor last active, so that the selected network
objects are all fully displayed.
Create
Create chart for selected attributes
Chart

2.14.6.4

Functions available in the shortcut menu outside of cells
1. Right-click the empty area next to or below the list.
2. Choose the desired entry from the context menu.

101

2.14.7 Selecting cells in lists
Function
Opening new
list for
Creating userdefined attributes

2.14.7

Description
Show another list with network objects of network object type including
the network objects' attributes.
You can select the function in the shortcut menu of the list of a relation, if
the coupled list has been opened and the relation list contains network
objects of the network object type with their own list.
(see "Using user-defined attributes" on page 200)

Selecting cells in lists
In a list, you can use the mouse and keyboard to select cells:
Purpose
Selecting a cell in a list
Select all cells in the rows and columns
which lie between two cells, including the
latter

Select additional cells
Undo the selection
Selecting all cells of a column
Select an additional column.
Selecting all cells of a row
Selecting additional rows

Description
Click the cell.
You have the following options:
Click in a cell, hold down the SHIFT key and
click in another cell.
Click in a cell, hold down the left mouse button and drag the mouse.
Click in a cell, hold down the CTRL key and click
in another cell.
Right-click into an empty area below or next to
the list.
Click the column header.
Hold down the CTRL key and click another
column header.
Click the row header.
Hold down the CTRL key and click another row
header.

If on the toolbar you selected Synchronization, in the Network Editor, in 2D mode, the network
objects you select in the list are highlighted.
This is also the case for coupled lists, in the list on the right, for instance for the following
relations:
for Lanes, if the list on the left shows Links
for Pedestrian routes (static), if the list on the left shows Pedestrians In Network.

2.14.8

Sorting lists
You can sort a list by the data in one or multiple columns. This is also possible for lists that are
embedded in windows.

102

2.14.9 Deleting data in lists

2.14.8.1

Sorting lists according to a column
1. Click on the column header of the desired column.
2. Click on the

Sort ascending or

Sort descending icon.

The entries are sorted.

2.14.8.2

Sorting lists according to several columns
1. Click on the column header of one of the desired columns
2. Press the CTRL key and click on further column headers.
3. Click on the

Sort ascending or

Sort descending icon.

The list is first sorted according to the entries in the selected column which is furthest to the left.
If several of these entries are identical, these rows are sorted according to the next column,
etc.

2.14.9

Deleting data in lists
You can select and delete data in lists. Some attributes cannot be changed; these cells are
displayed in gray in the lists. These attributes are deleted when the respective network object
is deleted.
1. Right-click the entry, section, column header or row header of your choice (see "List
sections in which you can select data" on page 96).
The context menu opens.
2. From the shortcut menu, choose Delete.
Tip: Alternatively, click the
"List toolbar" on page 93).

symbol Delete object(s) to delete a selected entry (see

When you delete network objects, this might affect other network objects, e.g. if they lie on
top of the deleted network objects, are assigned to them or vice versa. A message is
displayed for the first network object affected.
3. When the message is shown, click the desired button:

103

2.14.10 Moving column in list
Button
Description
Continue Deletes network object according to the message. Shows the next message.

Skip

Cancel

When you select Do this for all messages, then all network objects are
deleted for which afterwards corresponding messages are displayed.
The window closes.
Does not delete network object according to the message. Shows the next
message.
When you select Do this for all messages, then no more network objects
are deleted.
The window closes.
Closes the window without deleting any network objects. You can then, e.g.,
assign other network objects to the network objects affected, so that they no
longer have objects assigned to them that you want to delete.

2.14.10 Moving column in list
1. In the column of your choice, click on the desired column header and keep the mouse
button pressed.
2. Move the mouse pointer to the desired position between two column headers.
Between the column headers, a blue bar is displayed, showing the position of the moved
column.
3. Release the mouse button.

2.14.11 Using named list layouts
You can adjust the columns of the list and specify a name under which the current settings are
saved, so that the list layout can be used again later. You can save the named list layouts to
the *.layx file. In a list, you can choose a list layout from all named list layouts in order to show
the columns in your list accordingly.
A list layout always refers to lists of a specific network object type. You cannot use a list layout
for lists of other network object types.

2.14.11.1 Creating a list layout
1. Open the list of your choice.
2. Adjust the list layout:

104

2.14.11 Using named list layouts
Adjusting an
element
Hiding
columns
Showing
columns

Sorting
columns
Moving
columns

Description
Context menu Remove Column
Symbol
Attribute Selection: Opens the window .
In the list on the left, double-click the desired attribute (see "Selecting
attributes and subattributes for a list" on page 106).
(see "Sorting lists" on page 102)
Move column header horizontally between the columns you want to move
(see "Moving column in list" on page 104).

3. On the List toolbar, into the List layout selection box, enter a unique name.
4. Confirm with Enter.
On the toolbar of lists of the same type, in the List layout selection box, the new list layout is
displayed and can be selected.

2.14.11.2 Assigning a list layout
1. Open the list of your choice.
2. In the list, in the List layout selection list box, click the icon

3. Select the desired list layout.
The list layout is assigned to the list. The columns of the list are adjusted.

2.14.11.3 Saving list layouts
1. In the menu, select File > Save Layout As.
2. Enter a unique name.
3. Confirm with Save.
The current layout of the entire Vissim user interface, and thus all named list layouts, are
saved to the *.layx file.
If in the User Preferences, the option Auto-save layout when network file (inpx) is saved is
selected, the layout file is saved automatically under the name of the currently loaded network
file, each time the network file is saved (see "Specifying automatic saving of the layout file
*.layx" on page 145).

2.14.11.4 Reading in saved list layouts additionally
In your currently open file, you can import all list layouts that are saved to a *.layx layout file for
the individual network object types. Then you can apply these list layouts to the list of network

105

2.14.12 Selecting attributes and subattributes for a list
object types in the currently opened file.
1. In the File menu, choose > Read Additionally > Named List Layouts.
2. Select the desired *.layx file of your choice.
3. Click the Open button.
The list layouts are imported. When you open lists of the corresponding network object types,
on the toolbars of the lists, in the List layout selection list box, you can select the newly
imported list layouts.

2.14.11.5 Deleting a named list layout
1. On the list toolbar, right-click on the List layout selection list box.
2. Position the mouse pointer on the Delete entry in the context menu.
The named list layouts are displayed in the context menu
3. Click the desired list layout in the context menu.
4. Confirm with Yes.

2.14.12 Selecting attributes and subattributes for a list
In each list, you can specify the sequence and format in which you want to show attributes.
You can also define an alias for an attribute, change the name of the alias or delete the alias
(see "Editing aliases in the Attribute selection list" on page 210).

2.14.12.1 Select attribute or subattribute
1. On the toolbar, click the

Attribute selection button.

The attribute selection window : Select Attributes opens.
On the right, the program indicates the attributes and their formats for each column in the
list.

106

2.14.12 Selecting attributes and subattributes for a list

You can edit the data in the rows of the list on the right. The changes are accepted in the
columns of the list, when you click OK to close the : Select
Attributes window.
The attributes, which you can display as columns in the list, are displayed in an Explorer
pane on the left, in alphabetical order of the attributes' long names. Symbols indicate the
properties of the attributes:
Symbol
Disk

Description

Ring

Green: attribute, without subattributes, that only has values during a
simulation run
Red: attribute, for which you must chose at least one sub-attribute, and
that only has values during a simulation run
Blue: alias for an attribute that only has a value during a simulation run
Indirect attribute of a corresponding network object: The network object
has exactly one network object belonging to it in the respective category.
You can edit the indirect attribute if the target object can be edited.
Indirect attribute of a corresponding network object: The network object
either has or does not have a network object belonging to it in the respective category

Green: attribute without subattribute
Red: attribute, for which you must select at least one sub-attribute.
Black filling: user-defined attribute (see "Using user-defined attributes"
on page 200)
Blue filling: alias of an attribute (see "Using aliases for attribute names"
on page 209)

107

2.14.12 Selecting attributes and subattributes for a list
Symbol

Description
Indirect attribute of a corresponding network object: The network object
has many corresponding network objects in the respective category. This
is summarized with aggregation functions.
Scenario comparison under attribute Exists in
scenario: In the scenario currently open, network objects of this type have
relations to a scenario selected for comparison whose network has been
opened in the background (see "Comparing scenarios" on page 1088).
Scenario comparison : Contains attributes, from which
you can select subattributes of scenarios for scenario comparison and add
them to the list (see "Selecting attributes for scenario comparison" on page
1089)
For 0..n relations, the following aggregate functions are provided:
Count
Determine the number of associated network objects.
Min
Determine the minimum value of all associated network objects for the
selected attribute.
Max
Determine the maximum value of all associated network objects for the
selected attribute.
Sum
Determine the total of the values of all associated network objects for the
selected attribute.
Average
Determine the mean of the values of all associated network objects for the
selected attribute.
Histogram
Contrary to the Concatenate aggregate function, each occurring value is
issued only once along with the frequency of its occurrence.
Concatenate String all values of the associated network objects together for the selected
attribute.
Distinct
Contrary to the Histogram aggregate function, each occurring value is
issued only once regardless of the frequency of its occurrence.
2. If desired, filter the displayed subattributes (see "Setting a filter for selection of subattributes
displayed" on page 110).
3. Repeat the following steps for all attributes that you want to show in the list:
4. In the section on the left, select the attributes of your choice:
an attribute
several individual
attributes
multiple adjacent
attributes

5. Click on the icon

108

Click the desired entry.
Hold down the CTRL key and click the desired entries one
after another.
Hold down the SHIFT key and click the first and last entry.

2.14.12 Selecting attributes and subattributes for a list
Each attribute selected on the left is listed on the right in an additional row. You cannot edit
hatched cells or the attribute name.
6. If in the section on the right, you neither want to edit a value in a cell nor change the view or
arrangement of the rows, confirm with OK.

2.14.12.2 Editing the value of a cell in the section on the right
Each attribute selected on the left is listed on the right in an additional row. You cannot edit
hatched cells or the attribute name.
1. Click the cell of your choice.
2. Make the desired changes:
Column
Attribute
Decimals

Description
Attribute name
Number of decimal places. This is also possible with integer result attributes,
which allows you to set the desired precision of the aggregated
parameters.Mean and Standard deviation.

ShowUnits

If this option is selected, in the list, next to the attribute value, the unit is
displayed that has been selected in the Format column.
Alignment vertical alignment of the attribute value in the list
Format
Unit of the attribute value
3. If you do not wish to change the view or the arrangement of the rows in the section on
the right, confirm with OK.

2.14.12.3 Changing the view and the arrangement of the rows in the section on the right
1. If desired, edit the view and arrangement of the rows on the right:
Button Description
Adds the attributes selected in the Explorer on the left as rows to the section on
right and as columns to the list.
Adds the subattributes, including those from other scenario comparisons,
selected in the Explorer under
Scenario comparison to
the section on the right as rows and to the list as columns.
Deletes the rows selected on the right and the corresponding columns of these
attributes from the list.
Moves rows up and moves columns in list to the left
Moves rows down and moves columns in the list to the right

2. Confirm with OK.

109

2.14.13 Setting a filter for selection of subattributes displayed
The columns are adjusted in the list.

2.14.13 Setting a filter for selection of subattributes displayed
If attributes have subattributes, the Attribute selection window might contain many entries for
selection on the left, e.g. for each time interval of the simulation runs.

If you want to transfer only certain types of subattributes to the right side, e.g. only for the
current simulation run, you can filter the entries on the left by subattributes. On the left, only the
filtered subattribute types are displayed. From these, you can choose the ones you want to
adopt into the right side. This is particularly useful for the evaluation of result attributes.
1. In the list, click the icon

Attribute selection.

The Attribute selection window opens.
On the left, all attributes are shown that you can display in columns in the list (see
"Selecting attributes and subattributes for a list" on page 106).
On the right, the attributes are shown that are displayed with the current list layout.
2. Click the Filter button.
The Preselection Filter window opens.
3. Select the desired filter criteria:

110

2.14.14 Using coupled lists
Element
Description
Simulation Setting filters for the simulation runs performed:
Runs
Current run: show only attributes of the current simulation run
Average: arithmetic and thus unweighted average of all simulation runs
Standard deviation between all simulation runs
Minimum of all simulation runs
Maximum of all simulation runs
Number of each simulation run started
Time Inter- Set filter for time intervals:
vals
Last completed: Shows last time interval completed of the simulation run
selected
Total: Sum of all time interval values
Maximum of all time intervals
Minimum of all time intervals
Standard deviation between all time intervals
Average: arithmetic and thus unweighted average of all time intervals
x - y: specific, individual time intervals
Vehicle
Set filter for all vehicle classes or select vehicle classes. Only those vehicle
Classes
classes are displayed that were selected for the collection of separate results
during global configuration of the evaluation (see "Configuring evaluations of
the result attributes for lists" on page 954).
Pedestrian Set filter for all pedestrian classes or select pedestrian classes. Only those
Classes
pedestrian classes are displayed that were selected for the collection of separate results during global configuration of the evaluation (see "Configuring
evaluations of the result attributes for lists" on page 954).
4. Confirm with OK.
Next to the Filter button, an entry indicates which sub-attributes are filtered. On the left, only
the selected subattribute types are displayed.

2.14.14 Using coupled lists
Many network object types and base data types have relations other network object types or
base data types. For instance, a vehicle class refers to the vehicle types it contains. For
convenient assignment and editing, Vissim automatically displays two lists next to each other:
In the list on the left, network objects of the type from which the relation begins are displayed together with the network objects' attribute values.
For the list on the right, you can select one of the network object types or base data types
with relations to the network object type in the left list.

111

2.14.14 Using coupled lists

The left hand and right hand lists are linked to each other. If you select an object in the left list,
the right list automatically only shows objects with a relation to the object you selected. If there
are no such relations, only the column title is displayed. In the list, you can also select multiple
or all objects. Then the right list shows all objects that refer to the objects selected in the left
list.
You may edit attribute values in both coupled lists, with the exception of calculated attributes
and result attributes.
In the right list, you cannot add or delete objects unless they only exist within the objects in the
left list, e.g. the lanes of a link. Independent objects, to which multiple other objects might refer
(e.g. vehicle types of a vehicle class), can only be added or deleted in their own list or in the
Network editor. To add or delete such a reference, the relevant attribute must be shown in the
left list and changed there.
Synchronization with the global selection (in network windows and the Quick view) can be
activated in either of the lists on the left and on the right. If synchronization is activated on one
side
, it is automatically deactivated on the other
. For instance, in the coupled list
Routing Decisions/Routes , activate synchronization for routes to also display the routes
selected in the list in the Network window.
If on the toolbar you selected Synchronization, the network objects you select in the list are
highlighted in the Network Editor in 2D mode.
This is also the case for coupled lists, in the list on the right, for instance for the following
relations:
for Lanes, if the list on the left shows Links
for Pedestrian routes (static), if the list on the left shows Pedestrians In Network.

2.14.14.1 Selecting relations in coupled lists
Many network object types have relations to other network object types, such as to a link or to
multiple lanes. To show the objects of such a relation in both sections next to each other, open
the attribute list of the desired network object type. Then in the toolbar of the attribute list, in the
Relations list, click the network object type whose attributes you want to display in a list on the
right.
1. Open the list of the desired network object type.
If there is a relation, on the list toolbar, the Relations list box is displayed. By default, the
entry Single List is shown in the Relations list box.
2. Select the desired network object type in the Relations list box.

112

2.15 Using the Menu bar
On the right, the coupled list, with the network object type to which the relation refers, is
opened. Only those objects are shown to which the objects selected in the left list refer.
By default, you can edit the list (see "Using lists" on page 89).

2.14.14.2 Showing the simple list only
When a coupled list is displayed, you can close the right list and only show the list on the left:
On the list toolbar, in the Relations list box, click Single List.

2.15 Using the Menu bar
You can call program functions via the menus in the menu bar. You can change the menu
entries. You can redo the default settings.
Note: Your user preferences are saved in the Windows registry and in the *.layx layout
file when Vissim is ended. The settings are used automatically when the program is
restarted.

2.15.1

Overview of menus
You can also move the menus to the user interface and change the sequence of entries (see
"Editing menus" on page 126).
Note: Changing program elements or shortcut keys can make it more difficult for you to
find and use commands. The documentation and the PTV Vision Support assume that
the standard settings are used.

2.15.1.1

File menu
Menu commands / key
combinations
New

Open
CTRL+O

Description
If no network has been opened and the tab on the Start page
has been moved to the foreground, the tab is moved to the
background and the network editor is displayed in foreground.
If a network has been opened, it is closed. You can create a
new network.
If data was changed, a message is displayed asking whether
you want to save the network file before you close the network.
In any case, the user interface settings, graphic parameters of
the network editors and list settings are saved in a layout file
with the same name as the network file if this option is activated
under User Preferences (see "Specifying automatic saving of
the layout file *.layx" on page 145).
Import network file
You can drag an *.inpx network file from the Microsoft Win-

113

2.15.1 Overview of menus
Menu commands / key
combinations

Description
dows Explorer to the user interface by drag&drop in order to
open the file.
In the Windows Explorer, you can also double-click a *.inpx
network file to open it.

Open Layout

Open Default Layout

Read Additionally

Save
CTRL+S

Save Base Network
Save Scenario
Save Modification
Save as

114

If you open a network file containing 2D/3D model segments,
with a width that differs from the current Visum 2D/3D model
segments, a message is displayed. This message allows you to
copy the widths of the current Visum 2D/3D model segments to
all imported 2D/3D model segments.
Select and read in the *.layx layout file, then apply it to the
elements of the user interface, the graphic parameters of
network editors, and the list settings (see "Saving and importing
a layout of the user interface" on page 138).
Open and read in the defaults.layx layout file, and apply it to the
elements of the user interface, the graphic parameters of
network editors, and the settings in lists.
Network: Read network file *.inpx additionally (see "Reading a network additionally" on page 341), (see "Importing
INPX files including building data" on page 843)
Named list layouts (see "Using named list layouts" on
page 104)
Named Network Editor layouts (see "Using named Network editor layouts" on page 83)
Named chart layouts (see "Using named chart layouts" on
page 1070)
Simulation run (.sdf file, .db file) (see "Reading a simulation run additionally" on page 811)
Simulation runs (entire folder) (see "Reading simulation
runs additionally" on page 811)
Save network file *.inpx under the same path and name. In
addition, the settings for the user interface, graphic parameters
of the network editors, and the settings of lists are saved in a
layout file of the same name as the network file (if this option is
activated under User Preferences.
If in scenario management the base network is opened, Save
Base Network is shown, and you can only save the base network. The same applies when you open a scenario or modifications in scenario management.
Open the Save File As window, and save the network file
under a new file name and/or to a different directory. The File
name box automatically shows the file name of the network file.

2.15.1 Overview of menus
Menu commands / key
combinations

Save as Default Network

Save Scenario as

Save selection as

Save Layout as

Description
If a different directory than the previous directory is chosen,
additional files needed for the network must be copied
manually to the new directory, e.g. supply files for signal
control.
If there is a ..\.results directory for result
data, a query opens asking whether you want to save a copy of
the ..\.results directory under the same
name as the *.inpx file. If you select No, the folder is not copied.
This way, you can avoid saving identical result data to different
directories when saving multiple versions of your network.
The opened network is saved as a defaults.inpx file to the
following directory:
C:\Users\\AppData\Roaming\PTV Vision\PTV
Vissim 10
If a defaults.inpx file has been saved to this directory, it is
overwritten.
The default network is loaded when Vissim is opened and no
other network file is opened, e.g. when you double-click an
*.inpx file.
If you delete the defaults.inpx file from the
..\AppData\Roaming\.. path, the next time you open Vissim, the
defaults.inpx in your Exe installation directory of Vissim is used.
This command is not available when a scenario management
project has been opened.
When in Scenario Management a scenario is opened, you can
save the scenario under a different name. The scenario saved
under another name is displayed in the project explorer under
Scenarios.
Open the Save File As window, and save the selected network
objects to an *.inpx network file under a new file name and/or to
a different directory.
Save the current arrangement of user interface elements,
graphic parameters of network editors and the settings of lists to
a *.layx layout file in the following directory:
C:\Users\\AppData\Roaming\PTV Vision\PTV
Vissim 10
If a defaults.layx file has been saved to this directory, it is
overwritten.
If you delete the defaults.layx file from the path displayed, the
next time you open Vissim, the defaults.layx in your Exe
installation directory of Vissim is used.

115

2.15.1 Overview of menus
Menu commands / key
combinations
Save Layout as Default

Description
Save the following settings in the default layout file
defaults.layx:
the current arrangement of the user interface elements;
the graphic parameters of the network editor;
the current section of the background graphic and the background map, if a background graphic is loaded or a background map provider has been selected. In future Vissim
will open with the saved map section.
List settings
The defaults.layx file is normally located in the C:\Users\\AppData\Roaming\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim 10 folder.
Vissim uses these settings for the default layout, when after
starting the program, you do not load a network, but create a
new network file.

Compare and Transfer
Networks

Scenario Management

Create Model Transfer File: (see "Creating model transfer
files" on page 1092)
Apply Model Transfer File...: (see "Applying model transfer
files" on page 1093)
Executing functions for scenario management:
Place under scenario management (see "Placing a network under scenario management" on page 1084)
Open Base Network (see "Opening and editing the base
network in the network editor" on page 1086)
Open Scenario... (see "Opening and editing scenarios in
the network editor" on page 1087)
Open Modification... (see "Opening and editing modifications in the network editor" on page 1087)
Save in highlighted scenarios (see "Project explorer toolbar" on page 1078)
Project Structure (see "Editing the project structure" on
page 1079)

Import

116

ANM (Vistro)/Visum: Import ANM file (e.g. from Visum) (see
"Importing ANM data" on page 345)
ANM Adaptive... (see "Adaptive import of ANM data" on
page 349)
Import Synchro 7 data (see "Importing data from the add-on
module Synchro 7" on page 357)
Synchro 7 Adaptive (see "Importing Synchro 7 network
adaptively" on page 359)
CAD for Pedestrian Areas: Import CAD data that is used in

2.15.1 Overview of menus
Menu commands / key
combinations

Description
pedestrian simulation to represent obstacles and walkable
areas (see "Importing walkable areas and obstacles from
AutoCAD" on page 835)
BIM (*.ifc) (see "Starting conversion in Viswalk" on page
839)

Export

Open Working Directory
Show Log File
List of recently opened
files

Exit

2.15.1.2

Export Visum (Nodes/Edges) (see "Exporting data" on
page 359)
Export 3ds Max data (see "Exporting static network data for
3ds Max" on page 366)
Open Windows Explorer with the current working directory in
which the network file *.inpx is saved.
Show vissim_msgs.txt log file (see "Using the vissim_msgs.txt
log file." on page 1119)
Open one of the recently opened *.inpx network files. The list is
updated each time you open a network file *.inpx and save it
under a new file name. The update takes place before the File
menu is opened. *.inp files saved as a Vissim 6 version in any
previous program versions installed in parallel are not
displayed.
Close Vissim. If data was changed, you are prompted whether
you want to save the network file. In any case, the user interface
settings, graphic parameters of the network editors and list
settings are saved in a layout file with the same name as the
network file if this option is activated under User Preferences
(see "Saving and importing a layout of the user interface" on
page 138).

Edit menu
Menu
command
Undo

Description

Undo with name of the last operation performed: discards this operation
Undo with subordinate menu, if multiple operations can be discarded: discards all operations, including the one selected
Redo
Redo with name of the last operation undone: performs this operation
again
Redo with subordinate menu, if multiple operations can be redone: performs all operations undone, including the one selected

117

2.15.1 Overview of menus
Menu
command
Rotate
Network
Move
Network
User Preferences

2.15.1.3

Description
Enter angle around which the network is rotated counterclockwise (see
"Rotating the network" on page 367)
Enter the distances for the x-axis, y-xis or z-axis by which the network is
moved (see "Moving the network" on page 368)
(see "Setting user preferences" on page 141)

View menu
Menu commands /
key combinations
Open New Network
Editor
Start page
Create Chart
Network Objects
Levels
Backgrounds
Quick View
Smart Map
Project Explorer
Messages
Simulation time

Description
Open new Network editor. When a Network editor has been
opened, a new Network editor is added as a tab.
Open start page (see "Using the Start page" on page 56)
Open Create Chart window (see "Creating a chart without
preselection" on page 1063)
Open network objects toolbar (see "Using the Network object
toolbar" on page 60)
Open level toolbar (see "Using the Level toolbar" on page 65)
Open background toolbar (see "Using the background image
toolbar" on page 66)
Open Quick View (see "Using the Quick View" on page 66)
Open Smart Map (see "Using the Smart Map" on page 69)
Open project explorer for scenario management (see "Using the
project explorer" on page 1076)
Open window in which messages and warnings are displayed
(see "Showing messages and warnings" on page 1117).
Switching the simulation time format for the status bar (see
"Specifying the simulation time format for the status bar" on page
139)
Simulation second
Simulation time based on start time in the simulation parameters. Format [hh:mm:ss,f]
Activate or deactivate Quick Mode (see "Using the Quick Mode"
on page 85)

Quick Mode
CTRL+Q
Simple Network Display Activate or deactivate Simple Network Display (see "Selecting
simple network display" on page 84)
CTRL+N

2.15.1.4

Lists menu
The menu commands open lists with base data, network objects or result data.

118

2.15.1 Overview of menus
Menu command
Base Data

Description
Lists for defining or editing the base data (see "Base data for
simulation" on page 192)
Lists with attributes of network objects of the selected network
object type (see "Creating and editing a network" on page 314)

Network
Intersection Control
Private Transport
Public Transport
Pedestrian Traffic
Graphics & Presentation Lists for defining or editing network objects and data, which are
used for the graphical preparation and realistic representation of
the network as well as the creation of presentations from
simulations.
Event-Based Scripts
List of event-based scripts (see "Using event based script files" on
page 1111)
Measurements
Lists for defining or editing network objects or collecting
simulation results
Results
Result lists with data from evaluations of simulations (see
"Performing evaluations" on page 941)

2.15.1.5

Base Data menu
Menu items open a window for basic network settings and/or open lists with basic objects for
simulation (see "Base data for simulation" on page 192).
Menu
command
Network Settings
UserDefined
Attributes
Aliases

Description
Basic network settings (see "Selecting network settings" on page 192)
List for defining or editing user-defined attributes (see "Using user-defined
attributes" on page 200)

List for defining and editing alternative attribute names (see "Using aliases for
attribute names" on page 209)
2D/3D Model Axles, shafts, clutches, and doors of vehicle models (see "Attributes of 2D/3D
Segments
model segments" on page 218)
2D/3D
2D models and 3D models for vehicles and pedestrians (see "Using 2D/3D
Models
models" on page 210)
Functions
Acceleration and deceleration behavior (see "Defining acceleration and
deceleration behavior" on page 221)
Distributions Distributions for desired speed, power, weight, time, location, distance,
occupancy, 2D/3D model, colors (see "Using distributions" on page 227)
Vehicle
Combine vehicles with similar technical driving characteristics in vehicle types
Types
(see "Using vehicle types" on page 254)
Vehicle
Combine vehicle types (see "Using vehicle classes" on page 267)

119

2.15.1 Overview of menus
Menu
command
Classes
Driving
Behaviors
Link Behavior Types
Pedestrian
Types
Pedestrian
Classes
Walking
Behaviors
Area Behavior Types
Display
Types
Levels
Time Intervals

2.15.1.6

Driving behavior parameter sets (see "Defining driving behavior parameter
sets" on page 268)
Link behavior types for links and connectors (see "Defining link behavior
types for links and connectors" on page 299)
You can combine pedestrians with similar properties into pedestrian types
(see "Using pedestrian types" on page 830)
Group pedestrian types and combine them into pedestrian classes (see
"Using pedestrian classes" on page 832)
Walking behavior parameter sets (see "Modeling area-based walking
behavior" on page 879)
Area behavior types for areas, ramps & stairs (see "Defining area behavior
types" on page 881)
Display for links, connectors and construction elements in the network (see
"Defining display types" on page 300)
Levels for multistory buildings or bridge structures for links (see "Defining
levels" on page 868)
Time intervals (see "Defining time intervals for a network object type" on page
306)

Traffic menu
Menu
command
Vehicle
Compositions
Pedestrian
Compositions
Pedestrian
OD Matrix
Dynamic
Assignment

120

Description

Description
Define and edit vehicle compositions (see "Modeling vehicle compositions"
on page 425)
Define and edit pedestrian compositions (see "Modeling pedestrian
compositions" on page 877)
Define pedestrian demand on the basis of OD relations (see "Selecting
origins and destinations in the Pedestrian OD Matrix" on page 919)
Parameters: Defining parameters for dynamic assignment (see "Attributes for the trip chain file, matrices, path file and cost file" on page 731)
Matrices: Opening the Matrices list (see "Matrix attributes" on page 683)
Zones: open the list Zones (see "Modeling parking lots and zones" on
page 659)
OD pairs: open and display the OD Pairs list, origin zones and destination zones
Edges: open the list Edges (see "Attributes of edges" on page 678)
Paths: Open the list Paths (see "Attributes of paths" on page 712)
Read Paths: Import the path file *.weg(see "Attributes of paths" on page
712), (see "Setting volume for paths manually" on page 745)

2.15.1 Overview of menus
Menu
command

Toll Pricing
Calculation
Models
Managed
Lanes
Facilities

2.15.1.7

Description
Write Paths: Save current paths to path file *.weg
Create Static Routing from Assignment: convert the current state of the
dynamic assignment and thus also the paths found and their congestions
into a Vissim model with inputs and static routes (see "Generating static
routes from assignment" on page 750)
Calculating PTV Visum assignment (see "Using an assignment from
Visum for dynamic assignment" on page 752)
Opens the list Toll Pricing Calculation Models / Elements (see "Defining toll
pricing calculation models" on page 311)
Opens the list Managed Lanes Facilities / Pricing Models (see "Defining
managed lane facilities" on page 308)

Signal Control menu
Edit input data for signal control
Menu command
Signal
Controllers
Signal
Controller
Communication
Optimize All
Fixed Time
Signal
Controllers

2.15.1.8

Description
Open the Signal Controllers list: Define or edit SC (see "Using signal
control procedures" on page 566)
Opens the SC Communication list (see "Linking SC" on page 636)

Start the green time optimization of all stage-based fixed time controllers
in the network (see "Performing green time optimization of stage-based
fixed time controllers" on page 573)

Simulation menu
Menu
Description
command /
key
Parameter Enter simulation parameters (see " Selecting simulation method micro or meso"
on page 796), (see "Defining simulation parameters" on page 796), (see
"Selecting the number of simulation runs and starting simulation" on page 801)
Continuous Starts continuous simulation run or switches from Simulation single step mode
to Simulation continuous mode.
F5
Single Step Starts simulation in Simulation single step mode or switches from Simulation
continuous mode to Simulation single step mode or executes the next single
F6
step.
Stop
Quit simulation run

121

2.15.1 Overview of menus
Menu
Description
command /
key
ESC
Check net- Check Vissim network for inconsistencies (see "Checking the network" on page
work
812)

2.15.1.9

Evaluation menu
Activate and parameterize evaluations (see "Performing evaluations" on page 941)
Menu
Description
command
Configuration Define settings for the evaluation of simulation runs:
Result Management: (see "Managing results" on page 947)
Define output directory for evaluation files
Result Attributes: Configure data collection in result attributes: (see
"Configuring evaluations of the result attributes for lists" on page 954)
Direct Output: Configure output into files or databases (see "Configuring
evaluations for direct output" on page 957)
Database
Configure the database connection (see "Configuring the database
Configuration connection for evaluations" on page 958)
Measurement Show lists of network objects for measurements (see "Showing results of
Definition
measurements" on page 953)
Window
Configure the display of signal times table, the SC detector record and signal
changes in windows (see "Showing evaluations in windows" on page 962)
Result Lists
Open Result lists of evaluations (see "Showing result attributes in result lists"
on page 956)

2.15.1.10 Presentation menu
Create presentation (see "Creating simulation presentations" on page 1098)
Menu command
Camera Positions
Storyboards
Record AVIs

3D Anti-Aliasing

122

Description
Open list Camera Positions (see "Attributes of camera
positions" on page 1099)
Open list Storyboards / Keyframes (see "Using storyboards
and keyframes" on page 1100)
Only in 3D mode: Record a 3D simulation as a video file in
the file format *.avi (see "Starting AVI recording" on page
1104).
Enable or disable 3D anti-aliasing (see "Selecting the 3D
mode and 3D recording settings" on page 143)

2.15.1 Overview of menus
Menu command
Continuous

Description
Starts continuous animation run or switches from Animation
single step mode to Animation continuous mode.
Continuous (without ANI file) Starts a continuous animation run for the current simulation,
without using an ANI file.
Single Step
Starts animation in single step mode or switches from
continuous animation run to single step mode or executes the
next single step.
Stop
Finish animation run
Single Step Reverse
Runs animation in reverse, single step mode.
Continuous Reverse
Run animation reverse continuously
Animation with ANI file
selected by default. Run animation with or without animation
file. If the command is not selected, only the animation of the
simulation in the network file currently open is run. Aggregated result attributes are used for visualization, e.g. for the
color of link segments or link bars (see "Running the animation" on page 1109).
Symbol

Animation with ANI file is selected

Opens a window in which you can select the
*.ani animation file of your choice. The
Animation animation then runs continuously.
continuous
Opens a window in which you can select the
*.ani animation file of your choice. The
Animation animation then runs in single step mode.
single step

Animation with ANI file is not
selected
When a network file is loaded,
the animation of the simulation
runs continuously.
When a network file is loaded,
the animation of the simulation
runs in single step mode.

While the animation is running, into the Go to second box, you can enter a simulation time of
your choice. This triggers an update of the Network editor and the result lists to the state of
the simulation, which corresponds to the specified simulation time period. Only aggregated
result attributes are used for visualization.
Animation Recordings
Open list Animation Recordings (see "Defining an animation
recording" on page 1107)
Record Animations
only in 3D mode: Switch recording on or off

2.15.1.11 Test menu
Perform testing of logic without simulation (see "Testing logics without traffic flow simulation"
on page 1094)

123

2.15.1 Overview of menus
Menu
Description
command
Continuous Starts continuous test run or switches from Test run single step mode to Test
run continuous mode.
Single Step Starts simulation in Test run single step mode or switches from Test run
continuous mode to Test run single step mode or executes the next single
step.
Stop
Quit test run
Record
Enabling and disabling macro creation. Enabled: A *.m_i macro file is saved to
Macros
the working directory.
Run Macro Select macro file *.m_i, enter simulation second until when you want to run
macro file, then start macro file
Edit Macro Open Macro Editor and edit macro (see "Editing a macro" on page 1096)

2.15.1.12 Scripts menu
Using the scripts, you manage script files and define the times at which you want to run the
script files during the simulation (see "Using event based script files" on page 1111)
Menu command
Event-Based Scripts
Run Script File
Stop Running Script

Description
Open list of event-based scripts
Execute script file (see "Starting a script file manually" on page 1112)
Stop initiated script file

2.15.1.13 Help menu
Access to information and documents about Vissim. For example, Help, information on current
Vissim installation, service and contact (see "Service and support" on page 46) . Register
Vissim as COM server.
If during the installation of Vissim, a document was not selected for installation, the menu
command is grayed out and is not available.
Various documents are only available in English. If during the installation of Vissim, you select
the installation of documents for another language, these will still be installed in the ..\doc in
folder of the selected language.
Menu
command
PTV Vissim
Help
COM Help

Description

Opens the Vissim Help located in the directory ..\exe (see "Using the manual,
Help and FAQ list" on page 46).
Opens reference documentation of the COM interface located in the ..\exe
directory.
PTV Vissim Opens the user guide in pdf file format that is located in the ..\doc\
Manual
directory.

124

2.15.1 Overview of menus
Menu
command
Introduction
to the
Vissim
COM API
Open
document
directory
FAQ
(Online)
Service
Pack Download
Technical
Support
Examples

License

Description
Opens an Introduction to the VissimCOM interface Vissim - COM
intro.pdf in English located in the ..\doc\ directory.

Opens the directory ..\Doc in the language selected under User Preferences >
General > Language > main language. All files saved to your computer during
the installation process are saved to this directory.
Show PTV Vissim FAQs on the web pages of PTV GROUP.
Show the PTV Vissim & PTV Viswalk Service Pack Download Area on the
webpages of PTV GROUP (see "Services by the PTV GROUP" on page 46).
Show the support form of the Vissim Technical Hotline on the webpages of
PTV GROUP (see "Service and support" on page 46).
Readme Examples: Open the file Overview of examples.pdf. The file contains an overview of demo examples and training examples in the file
format *.inpx that can be installed during the installation of Vissim. By
default, the file Overview of examples.pdf is saved to the following path:
C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim 9
"First Steps" Tutorial: Open the file PTV Vissim - First steps.pdf. The file
contains a tutorial that provides a first insight into Vissim and practical
examples of how to use it. By default, the file is saved to a path similar to
the following: C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim
9\Tutorial First Steps
Open Demo Directory: Open the Windows Explorer and the directory
Examples Demo . The examples in the directories below illustrate typical
use cases of Vissim in subprojects. Each example is explained in *.pdf file.
The *.pdf file is always saved to the same directory as the example.
Open Training Directory: Open the Windows Explorer and show the directory Examples Training. The examples in the directories below demonstrate program functions or their combination in an easy to understand
context. Each example is explained in *.pdf file. The *.pdf file is always
saved to the same directory as the example.
Open the License window (see "Showing program and license information" on
page 49).
Register Vissim as COM server.

Register
COM
Server
About
Open the Info about PTV Vissim window (see "Showing program and license
PTV Vissim information" on page 49).

125

2.15.2 Editing menus

2.15.2

Editing menus
You can move or delete menus and menu entries.
Note: Changing program elements or shortcut keys can make it more difficult for you to
find and use commands. The documentation and the PTV Vision Support assume that
the standard settings are used.
You can restore the default settings (see "Resetting menus, toolbars, shortcuts, and dialog
positions" on page 146).

2.15.2.1

Showing menu entries several times
You can show menu entries in several menus or toolbars.
1. Right-click next to the menu bar.
A context menu opens.
2. Then select Customize.
The Customize window opens.

3. Select the Commands tab.
4. Under Categories, select the desired category.
5. Select the desired entry in the correspondingCommands list box.

126

2.16 Using toolbars
6. Hold down the left mouse button and drag the entry to the position of your choice in the
Vissim menu.
7. Release the mouse button.
The entry is additionally displayed at the new position.

2.15.2.2

Deleting menu or menu entry
1. Right-click next to the menu bar.
A context menu opens.
2. Then select Customize.
The Customize window opens.
3. Hold down the left mouse button and drag the menu or menu entry from the user interface
of Vissim.
4. Release the mouse button.
The menu or menu entry is deleted from the user interface of Vissim.

2.15.2.3

Changing display of menus
1. Right-click next to the menu bar.
A context menu opens.
2. Then select Customize.
The Customize window opens.
3. Select the Options tab.
4. Make the desired changes.

2.16 Using toolbars
You can call program functions via the toolbars. You can change the position of toolbars and
edit toolbars. You can redo default settings of toolbars.
Note: Your user preferences are saved in the Windows registry and in the *.layx layout
file when Vissim is ended. The settings are used automatically when the program is
restarted.

127

2.16.1 Overview of toolbars

2.16.1
2.16.1.1

Overview of toolbars
File toolbar
Symbol Name Description
Hotkeys
New If no network has been opened and the tab on the Start page has
been moved to the foreground, the tab is moved to the
background and the network editor is displayed in foreground.
If a network has been opened, it is closed. You can create a new
network.
If you have changed data, you are prompted whether you want to
first save the network file. In any case, the user interface settings,
graphic parameters of the network editors and list settings are
saved in a layout file with the same name as the network file if this
option is activated under User Preferences (see "Specifying
automatic saving of the layout file *.layx" on page 145).
Open Open saved Vissim network. If in the same folder there is a layout CTRL+O
file of the same name, it is also read in.
Save Save the Vissim network. In addition, the settings for the user
CTRL+S
interface, graphic parameters of the network editors, and the
settings of lists are saved in a layout file of the same name as the
network file (if this option is activated under User Preferences.

2.16.1.2

Edit toolbar
Symbol

Description
Undo with the name of the last function performed: discards this function.
Undo with a list box if several functions can be discarded.
Redo with the name of the last function performed: performs this function again.
Redo with a list box if several functions can be restored.
Time interval after which the display of the current simulation is updated.
Value range: Each 0.1 simulation second (each time step) up to the entire
100 simulation seconds (all 1,000 time steps)
Toggle Quick Mode (see "Using the Quick Mode" on page 85)
Toggle Simple Network Display (see "Selecting simple network display"
on page 84)

2.16.1.3

Simulation toolbar
Start and stop simulation (see "Running a simulation" on page 796)

128

2.16.1 Overview of toolbars
Symbol Name
Simulation
continuous
Simulation
single step
Stop simulation

2.16.1.4

Description
Starts continuous simulation run or switches from Simulation
single step mode to Simulation continuous mode.
Starts simulation in Simulation single step mode or switches
from Simulation continuous mode to Simulation single step
mode or executes the next single step.
Stop started simulation run

Key
F5
F6

ESC

Animation toolbar
Start and stop animation (see "Running the animation" on page 1109) This toolbar is hidden in
the default layout.
To show the Animation toolbar, in the shortcut menu, right-click next to the toolbars (see
"Adapting the toolbar" on page 130).
Symbol Name
Animation
single step
reverse
Animation
continuous
reverse
Animation
continuous

Description
Stops running animation and shows last step before the current simulation second.
Stops running animation and plays animation in continuous reverse
order.
When no animation run is started: Opens a window in which you
can select the *.ani file of your choice. Then starts the continuous
animation run.
When the Animation single step mode is started: Lets animation
run continuously.

Animation
single step

When no animation run is started: Opens a window in which you
can select the *.ani file of your choice. Then starts the animation
run and shows the step of the first simulation second.
When the Animation continuous mode is started: Stops animation
run and show next single step.
Stop anim- Finish animation run
ation
Go to
During an animation run, goes to the entered simulation second of the
second list animation run. Format: second [s] or time [hh:mm:ss.f], from simulation
second ZERO.

2.16.1.5

Test toolbar
Test signal control logic without simulated vehicles (see "Testing logics without traffic flow
simulation" on page 1094). This toolbar is hidden in the default layout.

129

2.16.2 Adapting the toolbar
To show the Test toolbar, in the context menu, right-click next to the toolbars (see "Adapting the toolbar" on page 130).
Symbol Name
Test run
continuous
Test run
single step
Stop test
run

2.16.1.6

Description
Starts continuous test run or switches from Test run single step mode
to continuous mode.
Starts simulation in Test run single step mode or switches from Test
run continuous to Test run single step mode or executes the next
single step.
Quit test run

View toolbar
If you have opened multiple windows, you can switch between them to place another window
in the foreground (see "Switching between windows" on page 89).

2.16.1.7

Toolbar in Network Editors
Change network display and navigate in the network (see "Network editor toolbar" on page
73)

2.16.1.8

Toolbar in lists
Change list layout and export data (see "List toolbar" on page 93)

2.16.2

Adapting the toolbar
You can position, show, hide, and adjust toolbars in the main window. The toolbars of network
editors and lists cannot be changed.

2.16.2.1

Positioning the toolbar
You can drag the toolbar to a desired position:
At the edges of the user interface of Vissim
To any position in the user interface of Vissim
1. Click the left edge

of the toolbar and keep the mouse button held down.

2. Drag the toolbar to the desired position and release the mouse button.
The toolbar is shown with a title line.

2.16.2.2

Showing and hiding the toolbar
1. Click with the right mouse button on the empty area next to or below a toolbar.
The context menu opens. The selected options indicate which toolbars are shown.

130

2.17 Mouse functions and key combinations
2. Select the desired options in the context menu.

2.16.2.3

Anchoring the toolbar
1. Click with the right mouse button on the empty area next to or below a toolbar.
The context menu opens.
2. From the context menu, choose the entry Lock the Toolbars.
You can no longer position the toolbar.

2.16.2.4

Creating your own toolbar
1. Right-click next to the menu bar.
A context menu opens.
2. Then select Customize.
The Customize window opens.
3. Select the Toolbars tab.
4. Click the New button.
5. Enter the desired data.
6. Confirm with OK.
The toolbar is shown as empty. You can integrate menu commands (see "Showing menu
entries several times" on page 126).

2.16.2.5

Deleting your own toolbar
You can delete only user-defined toolbars.
1. Right-click next to the menu bar.
A context menu opens.
2. Then select Customize.
The Customize window opens.
3. Select the Toolbars tab.
4. In the Toolbars section, click the entry you want to delete.
5. Click the Delete button.
The toolbar is deleted from the user interface of Vissim.

2.17 Mouse functions and key combinations
Many mouse functions and key combinations correspond to the default settings of your
Microsoft Windows operating system in Vissim, for example for highlighting, copying or
inserting.

131

2.17.1 Using the mouse buttons, scroll wheel and Del key
In addition to these standards functions, you can use specific mouse functions and keyboard
combinations in Vissim (see "Using key combinations" on page 133). These are mentioned in
the description of the relevant functions in the Vissim Help and in the manual.

2.17.1

Using the mouse buttons, scroll wheel and DEL key
Key
Description
Right You can select the function of the right mouse button (see "Right-click behavior and
mouse action after creating an object" on page 143).
button
Open context menu: Opens a context menu. Which functions are shown in the
context menu depends on the program element or the list you click on and
whether network objects are highlighted. To insert new network objects, press
CTRL and click. To insert new links, hold down the right mouse button and drag
the mouse.
Insert network object: To insert links and connectors, hold the right mouse button down and drag the mouse. To open the context menu, press the CTRL key
and right-click.
Left
Click in the Network editor to select a network object.
mouse
Hold the mouse button down and drag the mouse to move an object in the Netbutton
work editor.
Hold down the CTRL key and the mouse button to create a copy of the object in
the Network editor.
Hold down the ALT key and mouse button to rotate an object in the Network
editor. This function is only available for some network objects, for example for
areas or obstacles.
Double-click a network object in a Network editor to open a window in which you
can change the attributes of the selected network object (if there is such a window).
Double-clicking in lists:
Edit entry
If you can choose one of several attribute values, an attribute list is opened.
Middle Drag the mouse to move the network section in the Network editor.
mouse In the 3-D mode, press ALT to rotate the network display in the Network editor.
button

132

2.17.2 Using key combinations
Key
Scroll
wheel

Description

DEL

Rotating this changes the network display:
Rotate down: enlarge (zoom in)
Rotate up: reduce (zoom out)
Hold down the scroll wheel and drag the mouse: moves the network display in
the Network editor.
Deletes all network objects currently selected in the network editor. If this means
that other objects must also be deleted, e.g. objects on a link, a message is displayed that you need to confirm before the network objects are deleted.
Removes a selected attribute value from a list, if you are allowed to edit or
delete the attribute.
Removes a network object from a list, if you selected the entire row.

2.17.2

Using key combinations
Normally you can use different key combinations in Vissim.
You can create and change your own key combinations for menu commands (see
"Customizing key combinations" on page 136).
Key combinations only function in activated Vissim main windows.
Note: Changing program elements or shortcut keys can make it more difficult for you to
find and use commands. The documentation and the PTV Vision Support assume that
the standard settings are used.
Hotkeys
CTRL+A

CTRL + B
CTRL +C
CTRL+INS
CTRL+D
CTRL+E
CTRL+N
CTRL+O
CTRL+Q

Description
In 2D mode: Toggle wireframe (see "Network editor toolbar" on page
73), (see "Setting up a road network or PT link network" on page 315),
(see "Moving network objects in the Network Editor" on page 336)
Show or hide backgrounds (see "Modeling the network for background
images" on page 379)
Copy selected network objects to the Clipboard (see "Selecting and
copying network objects" on page 320)
Toggle 3D mode (see "Using 3D mode and specifying the display" on
page 183)
Only during simulation run: Toggle color of vehicle status (see "Dynamically assigning a color to vehicles during the simulation" on page 165)
Activate or deactivate Simple Network Display (see "Selecting simple
network display" on page 84)
Open file. You can save the currently open network and load a saved
network file (see "Overview of menus" on page 113).
Activate or deactivate Quick Mode (see "Using the Quick Mode" on
page 85)

133

2.17.2 Using key combinations
Hotkeys
CTRL+S
CTRL+T

CTRL+U
CTRL+V
SHIFT+INS
CTRL+Y
CTRL+Z
TABULATOR

CTRL+TABULATOR
F5

ESC
ENTER
SPACE BAR

+
*
/

134

Description
Save network file (see "Overview of menus" on page 113)
In 3D mode only: Switches between Rotate mode (3D) and Flight mode
(3D) (see "Navigating in 3D mode in the network" on page 183), (see
"Flight over the network" on page 185)
Switching the simulation time format for the status bar (see "Switching
the simulation time format for the status bar" on page 140)
Pasting network objects from the Clipboard (see "Pasting network
objects from the Clipboard" on page 321)
Perform last operation undone again
Undo last operation performed
Switches between network objects lying on top of each other at the
click position and highlights the next respective object (see "Selecting a
network object from superimposed network objects" on page 340)
Switches between open lists and Network Editors (see "Structure of
lists" on page 90). Shows each of these in the foreground.
Begins the continuous simulation. Switches to continuous simulation, if
simulation was started in Simulation single step mode (see "Selecting
the number of simulation runs and starting simulation" on page 801).
Starts the simulation in Simulation single step mode.
Switches to single-step mode simulation, if continuous simulation
has been started.
Performs a single step, if simulation was started in Simulation
single step mode.
Stop simulation (see "Selecting the number of simulation runs and
starting simulation" on page 801)
Opens the window with the network object attributes, if a network object
has been selected in the network editor.
During a simulation in Simulation single step, executes the next step.
Switches to single-step mode simulation, if continuous simulation has
been started (see "Selecting the number of simulation runs and starting
simulation" on page 801).
If a continuous simulation has been started, increase the speed of the
simulation.
If a continuous simulation has been started, reduce the speed of the
simulation.
Maximum speed of the simulation.
Alternatively, press SHIFT++.
Go back to the last set simulation speed if this was not the maximum
speed.
Alternatively, press SHIFT+7.

2.17.2 Using key combinations
Hotkeys
1
POS1
PAGE UP
PAGE DOWN
Arrow key
A

I
J
K
L
Q

Description
Simulation in real time, Simulation speed = 1.0
Show entire network (see "Displaying the entire network" on page 81)
Zoom in (see "Zooming in" on page 80)
Zoom out (see "Zooming out" on page 80)
Moves the observer position regarding the network to the desired
direction
In 3D mode only: Move the current observer position horizontally to the
left. If you additionally press the SHIFT key, the speed is increased.
Alternatively for A, you can press the left arrow key.
Only in 3D mode: Move the current observer position horizontally to the
right. If you additionally press the SHIFT key, the speed is increased.
Alternatively for D, you can press the right arrow key.
In 3D mode only: Move current observer position vertically downwards
in terms of camera coordinates. If you additionally press the SHIFT key,
the speed is increased. It can correspond to the function of S,
depending on the orientation of the map.
In 3D mode only: Move current observer position vertically downwards
in terms of z coordinate of the model. If you additionally press the SHIFT
key, the speed is increased. It can correspond to the function of S,
depending on the orientation of the map.
In 3D mode only: Observer position with decreasing angle over
network
In 3D mode only: Observer position rotating clockwise around z axis
In 3D mode only: Observer position with increasing angle over network
In 3D mode only: Observer position rotating counter-clockwise around
z axis
In 3D mode only: Move current observer position vertically upwards in
terms of camera coordinates. If you additionally press the SHIFT key, the
speed is increased. It can correspond to the function of W, depending
on the orientation of the map.
In 3D mode only: Move current observer position vertically upwards in
terms of z coordinate of the model. If you additionally press the SHIFT
key, the speed is increased. It can correspond to the function of W,
depending on the orientation of the map.
In 3D mode only: Zoom out.
Instead of S, if you press the PAGE DOWN key, it is zoomed out at larger
increments.
In 3D mode only: Zoom in
Instead of W, if you press the PAGE UP key, it is zoomed in at larger
increments.

135

2.17.3 Customizing key combinations

2.17.3

Customizing key combinations
You can customize the keyboard mapping by specifying keyboard shortcuts.
Note: Changing program elements or shortcut keys can make it more difficult for you to
find and use commands. The documentation and the PTV Vision Support assume that
the standard settings are used.
1. Right-click under the title bar on the empty area next to the menu bar and the toolbar.
2. From the shortcut menu, choose Adapt.
The Customize window opens.

3. Click the Keyboard button.
The Customize keyboard window opens.

136

2.17.4 Resetting menus, toolbars, shortcuts, and dialog positions

4. Under Categories, select the desired menu.
5. Under Commands, select the menu command which you would like to apply for a new key
combination.
6. From the Keyboard shortcut list, select the desired key combination.
In the case that this key combination has already been used for a command, this command
is shown in the list.
7. Click Assign to confirm the selection.
If the key combination is allocated a different command, the combination is canceled.
8. Click the Close button.
9. Click the Close button.

2.17.4

Resetting menus, toolbars, shortcuts, and dialog positions
1. Choose Edit > User Preferences.
The User Preferences window opens.
2. Choose the entry GUI > General.
3. Click the button of your choice:
Reset Menu/Toolbar/Shortcuts
Reset dialog positions
A message opens confirming the reset. The next time you start Vissim, the respective interface
elements are displayed with their default settings and in their default positions.

137

2.18 Saving and importing a layout of the user interface

2.18 Saving and importing a layout of the user interface
When you rearrange program elements, such as network editors, lists, the Quick view, the
Smart Map, toolbars, context menus, graphic parameters of network editors or column settings
of a list, you can save these settings in a *.layx file. You can re-import this layout and use it for
the user interface.
When you save a *.inpx file, the current layout is automatically saved under the same name as
the *.layx file, if this option is activated in the User Preferences (see "Specifying automatic
saving of the layout file *.layx" on page 145).
When you open a *.inpx network file, the layout is automatically imported from the *.layx file, if
it has the same file name as the network file and has been saved to the same folder.
The default network file defaults.inpx is read in and provides predefined base objects when
you start Vissim or from the File menu, choose New. The default layout file defaults.layx is read
in when you start Vissim. Both files are saved in the following directory:
C:\Users\\AppData\Roaming\PTV Vision\PTV Vissim
If the default network file and/or the default layout file are deleted, they are copied from the Exe
subfolder of the Vissim installation to the aforementioned directory when you start the
program.
In Network editors and lists, you can generate named layouts and use them again later. All
named layouts are saved in the layout file. You can also choose to only additionally read in
named Network editor layouts or list layouts from the layout file.
Note: Your user preferences are automatically saved in the registry of your computer.
These cannot be selected and imported in Vissim.

2.18.1

Saving the user interface layout
When you save a network in a *.inpx file, a *.layx file with the user interface layout is
automatically saved under the same name (if this option is activated under User Preferences
(see "Specifying automatic saving of the layout file *.layx" on page 145). You can also save the
user interface layout to a *.layx file under a different name, e.g. when you want to use the
arrangement of program elements and/or graphic parameter settings in network editors in
another network.
Note: Your user preferences are automatically saved in the registry of your computer.
These cannot be selected and imported in Vissim.
You can also save several *.layx files with different settings.
1. In the menu, select File > Save Layout as.
The Save layout file as window opens. By default the path to the opened network file is
selected. The File name box automatically shows the name of the layout file. By default, the
file type *.layx is selected.
2. Enter a unique name.
3. Click the Save button.

138

2.18.2 Importing the saved user interface layout
The layout is saved in the *.layx file. You can reload the layout (see "Importing the saved user
interface layout" on page 139).

2.18.2

Importing the saved user interface layout
You can open a saved user interface layout to organize program elements, graphic
parameters of network editors, and the settings of list windows.
1. Select File > Open Layout in the menu.
The Load layout file window opens. By default the path to the opened network file is
selected. By default, the file type *.layx is selected.
2. Select the desired *.layx file of your choice.
3. Click the Open button.
Tip: You can also use a Drag-and-Drop operation to drag the file from the Microsoft
Windows Explorer to the user interface in order to open it.

2.19 Information in the status bar
The status bar is displayed at the bottom of the Vissim user interface interface. The status bar
is divided into the following areas. The information displayed in the areas depends on whether
or not a simulation is running:
Area
1st section left

Description

3rd section

In 2D mode: Current coordinates of the mouse pointer (global coordinates x,y in meters)
In 3D mode: fov (fieldOfView) = angle of view (FOV) of camera in
degrees from viewer's position.
Only during a simulation:
Current second or time of the simulation, followed by current cycle second
of an SC (see "Specifying the simulation time format for the status bar" on
page 139)
Only during a simulation:

4th section

Current number of vehicles in the network + current number of pedestrians in the
network
Only during a simulation:

2nd section

Real time factor of simulation speed
In parentheses: Number of vehicles that could be simulated close to real
time (only if in the simulation parameters, the simulation speed Maximum is selected)
if multiple simulations are running: Number of the current simulation run
(total of simulation runs) in the simulation parameters.

2.19.1

Specifying the simulation time format for the status bar
You can show the simulation seconds or the time.

139

2.19.2 Switching the simulation time format for the status bar
Showing the simulation seconds
In the View menu, select > Simulation Time > Simulation Second.
Showing the time in the time format hh:mm:ss
Here the start time which is set in the simulation parameters is used (see "Defining simulation
parameters" on page 796).
From the View menu, choose > Simulation Time > Time of Day.

2.19.2

Switching the simulation time format for the status bar
During a simulation run, you may switch between the views Simulation Second and Time of
Day.
To do so, in the status bar, in the second box, double-click the simulation time.
Tip: Alternatively, press CTRL+U.

2.20 Selecting decimal separator via the control panel
Vissim shows data by default with the decimal separator that is set in the control panel of your
operating system.
1. Choose Start > Control panel.
The next step varies depending on your operating system.
2. Double-click on Time, Language and Region or Regional and Language Options.
3. If you use Microsoft Windows 7 or 8, click the Advanced Settings button in the Formats
tab.
4. In the Numbers tab, check the character in the Decimal separator list box.
5. You can change the settings if you wish.

140

3 Setting user preferences

3 Setting user preferences
In the user preferences, you can make the following basic settings:
Select the language of the user interface of Vissim and the fallback language
Select the country for the country-specific information displayed on the start page
Restore default settings
Set the video compression for AVI recording
Settings for video compression and 3D mode
Select function for the right mouse button
Select the command you want executed after a new network object has been created.
Open the window with the attributes of the network object
Open the list with network objects of the network object type including the network
objects' attributes
None of the two commands
Check network at start of simulation
Select type of detector activation in the test mode
Specify default short name or long name for column headers
Define the number of functions last performed that are to be saved
Define the automatic saving of the layout file *.layx
Define default values for lane width, minimum gap time and minimum headway
Collect usage data

3.1

Selecting the language of the user interface
The available languages depends on the Vissim license.
1. In the Edit menu, choose > User Preferences.
2. In the navigator tree, choose GUI > General.
3. In the Main language list, click the language of your choice.
4. In the Fallback language list, click the language of your choice.
5. Confirm with OK.
The language setting is saved and is used in program elements and output files. The Main
language is used again the next time Vissim is opened.
If there is no translation available in the primary language for a text in the user interface, in the
Quick info describing an attribute or in an output file, Vissim automatically shows the text in the
fallback language. If there is no translation available in the fallback language, the text is

141

3.2 Selecting the country for regional information on the start page
displayed in English. If there is no English translation available, the text is displayed in the
original language. In most cases, the original language is German.

3.2

Selecting the country for regional information on the start page
The information on the start page may vary by region (see "Using the Start page" on page 56).
Some of it is available in different languages.
1. From the Edit menu, choose > User Preferences.
2. In the navigator tree, choose GUI > General.
3. Go to the Start page and select the desired entry in the -Country list box.
4. Confirm with OK.

3.3

Selecting a compression program
1. In the Edit menu, choose > User Preferences.
2. In the navigator tree, choose GUI > Graphics.
3. Make the desired changes:
Element Description
AVI
Compression button: Open the Video compression window, and select a
recording default compression program for AVI recording (see "Starting AVI recording"
on page 1104).

142

3.4 Selecting the 3D mode and 3D recording settings
4. Confirm with OK.

3.4

Selecting the 3D mode and 3D recording settings
1. In the Edit menu, choose > User Preferences.
2. In the navigator tree, choose GUI > Graphics.
3. Make the desired changes:
Section Description
3D
Enable 3D mode: Select this option to show the 3D mode. After you restart
Mode
Vissim, the following icons are displayed in the toolbars of the Network editors:
2D/3D (see "Network editor toolbar" on page 73)
Edit 3D graphic parameters (see "Editing 3D graphic parameters"
on page 184)
Anti-aliasing:
Select this option to reduce so-called “jaggies”, i.e. pixel
edges caused by screen resolution. Using this type of recording produces a
video of higher quality, however slows down the recording speed.
Background texture compression:
Select this option to compress textures for background images. It might then take longer to load background
images. Select this option if your computer does not have sufficient video
memory.
Graphics driver: Graphics driver required for displaying objects during
simulation.
Ensure that your video card and the driver installed support the standard
selected.
Settings changes only become effective after you restart Vissim.
OpenGL 3.0: Default setting
DirectX 11: Allows access to Vissim in 3D mode via remote desktop
4. Confirm with OK.
The changes take effect after Vissim is restarted

3.5

Right-click behavior and action after creating an object
In the Network editor, you can define the right-click behavior. This means you can specify
whether a window or list for editing the attributes is automatically opened after you insert a
network object, or whether neither the list nor the window shall be opened.
1. In the Edit menu, choose > User Preferences.
2. In the navigator tree, choose GUI > Network Editor.
3. Make the desired changes:

143

3.6 Showing and hiding object information in the Network editor
Element
Description
Right click Function, when you right-click in the network editor:
behavior
Right-click opens the context menu: The context menu of the Network
editor opens (see "Network editor context menu" on page 78)
To create new objects, press CTRL + right-click.
Right-click creates a new object: In the Network editor, a new network
object of the type selected in the Network objects toolbar is inserted.
Automatic
action
after
object creation

To open the context menu, press CTRL + right-click.
After you have added a new network object in the Network Editor, have
opened the window or list for editing the attributes, or have neither opened
the window nor the list.
For many network object types, you can not only edit the attributes in a list,
but also in a window. For some network object types, there is no window but
only the list, e.g. for vehicle inputs, pedestrian inputs, routng decisions /
routes, and conflict areas.
Show edit dialog if available, show list otherwise (default setting): If
there is a window for editing the attributes of this network object type,
open it, otherwise open the list of network objects of this type.
Show edit dialog if available, no action otherwise: If there is a window
for editing the attributes of this network object type, open it, otherwise do
not open a window or list.
Always show list: Always open the list of network objects of this type
No action: Do not open the list or window. The network object is inserted
into the Network Editor at the desired position.

4. Confirm with OK.

3.6

Showing and hiding object information in the Network editor
In the Network editor, in the Quick info, you can show Network editor attributes and attribute
values directly next to the network object. Depending on whether you insert the network
object, edit it or are point the mouse pointer towards it, different attributes and attribute values
are displayed.
You can show or hide the Quick info.
1. From the Edit menu, choose > User Preferences.
2. In the navigator tree, choose GUI > Network Editor.
3. Select or deselect Show Quick info in Network editor.
4. Confirm with OK.

144

3.7 Configuring command history

3.7

Configuring command history
You can set that Vissim saves the recently executed functions as command history. You can
also define the number of the previously executed functions which should be saved.
From the Edit menu, choose the Undo icon
redo them, click the Redo icon

to undo the maximum number of functions. To

(see "Overview of menus" on page 113).

1. In the Edit menu, choose > User Preferences.
2. From the navigation tree, choose Working Environment.
3. Make the desired changes:
Element
Command history (Undo /
Redo) active

Maximum number of entries
in command history

Description
If this option is selected, the previously executed
functions are saved.
You can use the
Undo icon.
Number of functions last performed that were saved and
shall be shown in the Edit > Undo menu.
Standard: 20
Maximum number: 49

4. Confirm with OK.

3.8

Specifying automatic saving of the layout file *.layx
1. In the Edit menu, choose > User Preferences.
2. From the navigation tree, choose Working Environment.
3. In the Auto-save layout section, make the settings of your choice.
Element
when network file (inpx) is saved

Description

when network is discarded (e.g. File New)

Select this option to automatically save the
layout file *.layx when you close the current
network.

Select this option to automatically save the
layout file *.layx when the network file *.inpx is
saved.

4. Confirm with OK.

3.9

Defining click behavior for the activation of detectors in test mode
You can set whether you want to activate detectors in test mode with a single or a double click.
1. Choose Edit > User Preferences.

145

3.10 Checking and selecting the network with simulation start
The User Preferences window opens.
2. Choose the entry GUI > Test Mode.
3. Make the desired changes:
Activate detector on double click: In the test mode, double-clicking switches the
detector call. A single click selects the detector and you can, for instance, look at the
attributes of the detector in the Quick View.D
Activate detector on single click (selection unavailable): Single click changes the
detector call. You cannot select detectors (see "Setting detector types interactively during a test run" on page 1094).
4. Confirm with OK.

3.10 Checking and selecting the network with simulation start
When you start the simulation, Vissim automatically checks the Vissim network for certain
constraints that could prevent the simulation from starting. You can select whether you also
want Vissim to check the Vissim network for consistency when the simulation starts.
1. In the Edit menu, choose > User Preferences.
2. In the navigator tree, choose Check network.
3. Make the desired changes:
Element
Description
Check network at
If this option is selected, Vissim checks the Vissim network for
start of simulation
certain constraints and for consistency when the simulation is started.
If this option is not selected, Vissim only checks the Vissim network for certain constraints that could prevent the simulation from
starting.

3.11 Resetting menus, toolbars, shortcuts, and dialog positions
1. Choose Edit > User Preferences.
The User Preferences window opens.
2. Choose the entry GUI > General.
3. Click the button of your choice:
Reset Menu/Toolbar/Shortcuts
Reset dialog positions
A message opens confirming the reset. The next time you start Vissim, the respective interface
elements are displayed with their default settings and in their default positions.

146

3.12 Showing short or long names of attributes in column headers

3.12 Showing short or long names of attributes in column headers
In the column header of attribute lists, you can show the short or long name of an attribute.
1. In the Edit menu, choose > User Preferences.
2. In the navigator tree, choose GUI > Lists.
3. Select the desired option:
Short name
Long name

3.13 Defining default values
You can define default values that are assigned to links and priority rules when you add them
to your Vissim network.
1. From the Edit menu, choose > User Preferences.
2. In the navigation tree, select Default values.
3. Make the desired changes:
Element Description
Add link Use user-defined lane width:
Select this option to enter the desired value
into the Lane width box. New links, with the lane width specified, are added in
the Network editor. Default 3.50 m
Add priUse user-defined minimum gap time:
Select this option to enter the
ority
desired value into the Min. gap time box. New priority rules, with the width
rule
specified, are added in the Network editor. Default 3.0 s
Use user-defined minimum headway:
Select this option to enter the
desired value into the Min. headway box. New priority rules, with the width
specified, are added in the Network editor. Default 5.0 m
4. Confirm with OK.

3.14 Allowing the collection of usage data
As your PTV Vision team, we want Vissim to provide the functions you actually need and that
make work easier for you. To support us in this objective, activate the Collect usage data
option. We can then examine which parts of the program you prefer and how often you use
individual functions, e.g. via the number of clicks on menu items, the size of networks, the time
the Network editor is used or the duration of simulation runs. All data collected and sent to our
servers is fully anonymized. The data cannot be traced back to you or your workplace.
1. In the Edit menu, choose > User Preferences.
2. In the navigation tree, choose Usage data.
3. Make the desired changes:

147

3.14 Allowing the collection of usage data
Element
Collect
usage
data
Log
usage
data locally

148

Description
Collect and transfer usage data.

Only available if the option Collect usage data has been selected.
Opens the Telemetrydata__.log file in the editor that is
installed as default on your computer. This file has been saved to the
%TEMP%\VISSIM folder. Files from the previous day are deleted when starting
Vissim.

4 Using 2D mode and 3D mode

4 Using 2D mode and 3D mode
In the 2D mode, you can add, show, and edit network objects as well as run vehicle or
pedestrian simulations.
The 3D mode is used to show networks during a simulation or presentation in 3D.

4.1

Calling the 2D mode from the 3D mode
On the Network editor toolbar, click the
The button changes to

D/3D button.

. The Vissim network and vehicles are shown in 2D.

Tip: You can save your display options to and load them from the *.layx file.

4.2

Selecting display options
You can use Graphic Parameters to define the display of network objects in Network editors
for each network object type. In addition, you can select base graphic parameters for the
display of the network for each open Network Editor.
With 3D Graphic Parameters, you define the three-dimensional display of the network for each
open Network Editor.
For vehicles, pedestrians, links, areas, ramps and stairs, you can specify a colored display,
e.g. a dynamic display based on simulation data.
Simulations can also be run in the 3D mode (see "Using 3D mode and specifying the display"
on page 183).
Per default, they are shown in 2D.

4.2.1

Editing graphic parameters for network objects
You can set graphic parameters for the network objects of a network object type. Via graphic
parameters, you define the display of network objects in the Network editor last used.
You can also change graphic parameters during the simulation.
In the network object list, a preview button is displayed for the graphic parameter of each
network object type. The colors of the preview buttons depend on the graphic parameters
chosen.
Note: Graphic parameters can refer to attributes of network objects.

1. If several network editors are open, ensure that the network editor in which you want to
display the network objects with the modified graphic parameters is active.

149

4.2.1 Editing graphic parameters for network objects
2. On the Network Objects toolbar, in the row of the network object type of your choice, click
the desired Edit graphic parameters button.
Icon

Network object type

Preview icon Graphic Parameters
(in default colors)

Links
Desired speed decisions
Reduced Speed Areas
Conflict Areas
Priority Rules
Stop Signs
Signal Heads
Detectors
Vehicle Inputs
Vehicle routes, in the list box

Vehicle Routes (Static)
Vehicle Routes (Partial)
Vehicle Routes (Partial PT)
Vehicle Routes (Parking Lot)
Vehicle Routes (Dynamic)
Vehicle Routes (Closure)
Vehicle Routes (Managed Lanes)
Parking Lots
Public transport stops
Public Transport Lines
Nodes

150

4.2.1 Editing graphic parameters for network objects
Icon

Network object type

Preview icon Graphic Parameters
(in default colors)

Data Collection Points
Vehicle Travel Times
Queue Counters
Flow bundles
Sections
Background Images

No graphic parameters

Pavement Markings
3D Traffic Signals
Static 3D Models
Vehicles In Network
Pedestrians In Network
Areas:
Polygon
Rectangle
Obstacles, in the list box

Polygon
Rectangle
Ramps & Stairs
Elevators
Pedestrian Inputs
Pedestrian routes, in the list box
Static
Partial
Pedestrian Travel Times
The list with the graphic parameters of the network object type opens (see "List of graphic
parameters for network objects" on page 152).

151

4.2.2 List of graphic parameters for network objects
Tip: Alternatively you can also open the graphic parameters of a network object type via
the context menu.
1. On the network object toolbar, right click the network object type of your choice.
2. From the context menu, choose Edit graphic parameters.
1. Make the desired changes.
2. If you want to change colors, double-click the row of the desired graphic parameter.
3. Click next to the list when you want to close the list of the graphic parameters of a network
object type.
The list closes. The graphic parameters are assigned to the network objects of the network
object type.

4.2.2

List of graphic parameters for network objects
You can set graphic parameters for a type of network object for the network editor last used
(see "Editing graphic parameters for network objects" on page 149) . Depending on the
network object type, in addition to general graphic parameters, this may also be network
object specific parameters.
If network objects are composed of multiple components, you can assign separate colors to
some of them. For example, you can select the color for the mast and the signal arm of each
3D signal head.
You cannot define graphic parameters for backgrounds
When you display network objects in the network editor, the display type settings have priority
over the graphic parameter settings for network objects (see "Defining display types" on page
300).

4.2.2.1

General graphic parameters
You can define the following general graphic parameters for most network object types:
Graphic parameter
Object visibility

Description
If this option is selected, the network objects of this
network object type are displayed in a network editor
If an object of the network object type is selected, the
attribute cannot be deactivated.
If this option is not selected, the non-selected network
objects of this type are not displayed in the Network editor
when a different network object type is selected.
If this option is not selected, but Label visibility and a
label attribute have selected.
In the Network editor, only the labels of network
objects of this network object type are displayed.

152

4.2.2 List of graphic parameters for network objects
Graphic parameter

Description
In the Network editor, the network objects of this network object type are not displayed.
The graphic parameters preview symbol is highlighted in a lighter color.

Label visibility

Label color
Label attribute

Label decimal places
Label font size
Use label color scheme

Select this option to show a 2D label for each network
object of this type in the network editor.
By default, the label is displayed in the center of the
network object. In the Insert mode, use the mouse to move
the position of the respective network object type.
Color of label
Opens the window . Click the attribute whose value you want to
show as a label.
Number of decimal places in label
Font size of label in points (pt)
Labeling of network objects using a color scheme based on
attribute values. Next to the margin on the right, click the
symbol to open the Edit Label Color Scheme window:
Classification by color: Attribute by whose values the
color is classified
Color for undefined value: Label color when the attribute lies outside the upper and lower limits
: Select a pre-defined color scheme that
contains class bounds and colors. The color schemes
vary in color and class bound.

Range scale factor:
Enter a factor for the upper bound and lower bound
Apply button: Multiply values of upper bounds and
lower bounds by a factor
Legend contains The legend contains a description of the symbols and
colors of the network object types, for which under Graphic
parameters, you selected Legend contains .

4.2.2.2

Network object specific graphic parameters
Graphic parameters for filling and outlines
The following network object types have graphic parameters for filling and outlines:

153

4.2.2 List of graphic parameters for network objects
Reduced Speed Areas
Detectors
Parking Lots
Public transport stops
Public Transport Lines
Static 3D Models
Pedestrian Inputs
Links
Connectors in the graphic parameters of the network object type Links
Nodes and node segments
Sections
Elevators
Graphic parameter
Fill style
Connector fill style
Segment fill style

Fill color
Connector fill color
Segment fill color
PT line fill color

Border line style

154

Description
Solid fill: Display fill color or color scheme color in
the network object
No fill: Do not display fill color or color scheme color
in the network object. Select this option together with
the border line style No line to hide the network
object, irrespective of the attribute Object visibility.
Color within outline area of network object or color of
line. The graphic parameter Use display type must not
be selected.
Using the fill style Solid fill and a fill color with the Alpha
value set to 0 in the color definition, the network objects
of the network object type are transparent in 2D and 3D.
The transparent option for network object types should
only be used when absolutely necessary. This option
reduces the rendering speed and thus the display and
visualization quality of large, transparent objects.
Avoid using “Transparency” for a completely
transparent floor, for instance.
Use Transparency for windows or individual
transparent wall segments, for example. When
designing balustrades for escalators, a transparent design creates a modern look. Additionally, pedestrians are more visible. The
window panes of vehicle models created as
ScetchUp files can be transparent.
Object border style:

4.2.2 List of graphic parameters for network objects
Graphic parameter
Connector border line style
Segment border line style
Border color
Connector border color
Segment border color

Description
Solid line
No line
Color of object border

Graphic parameters for line color
The network objects of the following network object types are displayed as a colored line that
run via a link or lane, or they contain lines. You define the line color via the graphic parameter
Line color:
Desired Speed Decisions
Stop Signs
Signal Heads
Vehicle Inputs
Queue Counters
Flow Bundles
Data Collection Points
Pavement Markings
Graphic parameters for Start line color, End line color, route course and public transport
stops.
The beginning and end of network objects of the following network object types are displayed
as a colored line that runs across a link or lane:
Priority Rules
Vehicle Travel Times
Public Transport Lines
Vehicle routes: For each type of vehicle route you may also specify the color of the route
course and of the public transport stops:
Static route color
Partial route color
Partial PT route color
Route closure color
Parking lot route color
Managed Lane general route color
Managed lane route color
Active stop color
Inactive stop color

155

4.2.2 List of graphic parameters for network objects
Graphic parameter
Start line color
End line color

Description
Color of section at the beginning of network object
Color of section at the end of network object

Graphic parameters for headways of priority rules
Graphic parameters
Headway visibility

Headway color

Description
If this option and the destination section of a priority
rule are selected, the headway of the priority rule is
displayed in the 2D mode as a triangle across the lane
width. The triangle is pointing downstream. The number
of lanes is considered for which priority rules have been
defined.
Color of triangles in which headways are displayed, if
the attribute Headway visibility has been selected.

Graphic parameters for display of signal heads in 3D mode
Graphic parameter
Signal head display mode 3D

Description
as blocks
as stop lines: Display as stop lines on links for
vehicles and on links for which the attribute Is pedestrian area (option Use as pedestrian area) is
selected.
as stop lines (vehicle links only): Display as stop
lines on links for vehicles. Stop lines are not shown
in links for which the attribute Is pedestrian area
(option Use as pedestrian area) is selected.

Graphic parameters for display of 3D signal heads
You may specify the colors used in a 2D schematic diagram of the components of a 3D signal
head:
Graphic parameter
Signal arm color 2D
Signal head color 2D
Mast color 2D
Streetlight color 2D
Color 2D

156

Description
Color of line that represents the arm
Outline color of circle at the end of the arm
Outline color of circle that represents the signal head
Outline color of diamond that represents the mast
Color of line that represents the street light arm
Outline color of rectangle at the end of the arm
Outline color of 3D signal head

4.2.2 List of graphic parameters for network objects
Graphic parameters for wireframe display of links and connectors
Graphic parameter
Wireframe color
Connector wireframe color

Description
Color of links in wireframe display
Color of connectors in wireframe display

Graphic parameters for display of link bars and lanes
Dynamic attributes can only be shown as link bars, if in the graphic parameter Link bar
configuration, for the attribute Link bar representation > Segment-based is selected.
Graphic parameter
Link bar display type

Link bar configuration

Description
No link bars: Links are displayed without link bars.
Only link bars: Links bars are shown instead of
links.
Links and link bars: Links are displayed together
with link bars.
Opens the Edit Link Bar window:
Link bar representation::
Segment-based: Link bars for individual segments
of the link
Link-based: Show link bars for entire link
Base color: Color of link bar, default RGB 190, 0, 0
Classification by width:
Attribute
: The width of the link bars is based on
the values of the selected attribute and the following
settings. If the value is negative, the width is based on
the absolute value.
Width scale:
Automatic: Vissim specifies the width.
Manually: For the width, you can enter a minimum
value Scale (minimum): and a maximum value
Scale (Maximum). If the absolute value of the attribute is smaller than the specified minimum value, the
link bar is not drawn. If the absolute value of the
attribute is greater than the specified maximum
value, the link bar is drawn with its maximum width.
Scale bar width (maximum): maximum width for
link bars with automatic width
Lateral offset: Distance between links and link bars
Classification by color:

157

4.2.2 List of graphic parameters for network objects
Graphic parameter

Description
Attribute
: The color of the link bars is based on the
values of the selected attribute and the following
settings:
Class bounds and colors:
Lower bound column: Value that represents the
lower bound of the selected attribute within this
value range. Based on value range after MIN, on
upper bound of the row above.
Upper bound column: Value that represents the
upper bound of the selected attribute within this
value range. The upper bound belongs the value
range.
Range scale factor:
Enter a factor for the upper bound and lower
bound
Apply button: Multiply values of upper bounds
and lower bounds by a factor

Color of pavement markings
Width of lane markings

: Select a pre-defined color scheme that
contains class bounds and colors. The color schemes
vary in color and class bound.
Color of pavement markings between the lanes of links
with multiple lanes
Width (in meters) of lane markings between the lanes of
links with multiple lanes, 0 = no markings.
Lane markings are no longer displayed when you zoom
far out of the Vissim network.

Graphic parameters for drawing mode of network objects
The colored display of network objects of the following network object types can be based on
graphic parameters that specify a permanent color, display type or color scheme. The colored
display of network objects can also be based on simulation data. Define the display via the
graphic parameter Drawing mode.
Links, nodes, sections, areas, obstacles, ramps & stairways:
Graphic parameter
Use consistent color
Use display type

158

Description
Display network objects of the network object type in the
color of the graphic parameter Fill style.
Show network objects with display type assigned to
network object (see "Defining display types" on page
300)

4.2.2 List of graphic parameters for network objects
Vehicles in network, pedestrians in network, links, nodes, areas, ramps and stairs:
Graphic parameter
Color scheme configuration

Description
Opens the Edit Color Scheme window: Select
classification based on attribute values of an attribute
and display network objects in this color scheme (see
"Assigning a color to vehicles based on an attribute" on
page 167), (see "Assigning a color to pedestrians based
on an attribute" on page 168), (see "Assigning a color to
links based on aggregated parameters" on page 169),
(see "Assigning a color to nodes based on an attribute"
on page 181), (see "Assigning a color to areas based
on aggregated parameters (LOS)" on page 172), (see
"Assigning a color to ramps and stairs based on
aggregated parameters (LOS)" on page 180)

The display of Vehicles In Network and Pedestrians In Network can be based on a color
distribution. The desired color distribution must be assigned to the desired vehicle type or
pedestrian type.
Graphic parameter
Color by color distribution

Description
During simulation, vehicles and/or pedestrians are
displayed in color according to the color distribution
assigned to your vehicle type or pedestrian type.

The display of Vehicles In Network during simulation may be based on the state of the
vehicles.
Graphic parameter
Color by driving state

Description
During simulation vehicles are displayed in a color that
represents their state. During a simulation run you may
switch between this view and the default view (see
"Dynamically assigning a color to vehicles during the
simulation" on page 165). You cannot edit the colors.

Graphic parameters for the display of vehicle and pedestrian shapes
Graphic
Description
parameter
Shape
Rectangle: Display vehicles and/or pedestrians as rectangles in 2D
(2D)
mode. Simulations might run faster than possible with the graphic parameter Rounded.
Rounded: Display vehicles and/or pedestrians as rounded corners in 2D
mode. Simulations might run slower than possible with the graphic parameter Rectangle.

159

4.2.2 List of graphic parameters for network objects
Graphic parameters for the display of areas and nodes based on their function
Graphic
Description
parameter
Color by
Only for Nodes (see "Meaning of node color and line style" on page 673):
function
Select this option to visualize nodes based on their attribute values Use for
evaluation, Use for mesoscopic simulation and Use for dynamic
assignment:
If for the Fill style attribute, Solid fill is selected, nodes are filled with the
same color as the border.
If no node is selected, the border color depends on the node type selected:
Color and style of the border
solid white
solid green
solid red
solid black
white, dashed
not white, dashed

node type selected
no node type
Use for evaluation
Use for dynamic assignment
Use for evaluation and for dynamic
assignment
Use for mesoscopic simulation
Use for mesoscopic and other simulations

only for areas:
This option is selected by default; the displayed area fill
color depends only on the area function:
Color
Description
Magenta Platform edge is selected for the Public transport usage
attribute of the area.
Blue
Waiting area is selected for the Public transport usage attribute
of the area.
Green
A pedestrian input is located in the area.
Red
A destination section of a pedestrian route is located in the area.
Gray
All other areas
If an area has several functions, the order of the colors in the table
determines the fill color priority for displaying the area.
In wireframe display the colors are used for the edges of the areas.
Graphic parameter for turn value visualization
Visualize turn values graphically in the Network editor using result attributes of a node along
turn relations (see "Visualizing turn values" on page 645) , (see "Configuring turn value
visualization" on page 648).

160

4.2.3 Editing base graphic parameters for a network editor
Graphic parameters for visualizing the volume on paths with flow bundles
Graphic
Description
parameters
Show flow If a flow bundle or at least a filter cross section is selected, the volume on
bundle bars the respective paths is displayed using flow bundle bars (see "Visualizing
volumes on paths as flow bundles" on page 726), (see "Show flow bundle
bars" on page 729).
Next to the margin on the right, click the
symbol to open the Edit Flow
bundle bars window:
The classification by width is based on the flow bundle volume.
Width scale:
Automatic: Vissim specifies the width.
Manually: For the width, you can enter a minimum value Scale (minimum): and a maximum value Scale (Maximum). If the absolute value
of the attribute is smaller than the specified minimum value, the flow
bundle bar is not drawn. If the absolute value of the attribute is greater
than the specified maximum value, the flow bundle bar is drawn with its
maximum width.
Scale bar width (maximum): maximum width for flow bundle bars with
automatic width
Lateral offset: Distance between links and flow bundle bars

4.2.2.3

Graphic parameters with hatched cells
Hatched cells contain irrelevant attribute values that due to other attribute values have no
effect. If, for example, the Label visibility is deactivated, the graphic parameters Label color,
Label attribute, Label decimals and Label font size are shown hatched.

4.2.3

Editing base graphic parameters for a network editor
1. On the toolbar of the Network editor, click the button

Edit basic graphic parameters.

The list of graphic parameters opens (see "List of base graphic parameters for network
editors" on page 161).
2. Select the desired entries.
3. If you want to change colors, double-click the row of the desired graphic parameter.
4. Click next to the list when you want to close it.
The list closes. The graphic parameters are assigned to the Network Editor.

4.2.4

List of base graphic parameters for network editors
You can set the following graphic parameters independently for every Network editor. You can
also change graphic parameters during the simulation.

161

4.2.4 List of base graphic parameters for network editors
Long name
Background color
Show map
Map provider
Map gray scale
Map intensity
Wireframe mode
Show scale
Show grid
Showing the simulation
time label

Description
Background color in 2D mode
Display or hide background map in 2D mode. The desired map
must be selected in the base graphic parameter Map provider.
Select a background map from a background map provider
Display background map in gray tones or color
Background map color intensity: 0 = no color, 100 = maximum
color intensity
Toggle wireframe
Show or hide scale at the bottom left of the Network editor
Show 20 m grid as help to position network objects. If you zoom
out the network substantially, the grid is no longer shown.
In the Network Editor, the current simulation time is displayed in
simulation seconds or as the time [hh.mm.ss]. The simulation
time is also recorded during the recording of *.avi files.

Simulation has not been started: 0.00 simulation seconds or
the time 00:00:00
Simulation in Continuous mode: Simulation time continues
to run
Simulation in Single step mode: The simulation time displayed is the time of the current single step. If you continue in
the Single step mode, the simulation second displayed will
only continue to run after the time intervals specified in the
simulation parameters under simulation resolution have
ended (see "Defining simulation parameters" on page 796).
Simulation time label pos- Display position of simulation time in the Network Editor
ition
Simulation time offset
Relative position of simulation time to the label position in the
Network Editor
First value: x position, default 15
Second value: y position, default 30
Simulation time label font Font color of simulation time
color
Simulation time label font Font size in pt of simulation time
size
Show logo
Display the logo at the Logo position. The logo graphic file is
selected in the Logo filename box.
Logo position
Position of logo in the network editor
Logo offset
First value: Number of pixels by which the logo is moved
towards the x-axis.
Second value: Number of pixels by which the logo is moved
towards the y-axis.

162

4.2.4 List of base graphic parameters for network editors
Long name
Logo file name

Description
Name of the logo graphic file Click the
symbol to select the
file. Vissim supports the following file formats for logos:
Raster formats
*.bmp Windows bitmap, two-dimensional
*.jpg graphic compressed according to JPEG (Joint
Photographic Experts Group) standard
*.gif Graphics Interchange Format, compressed with no loss
in quality
*.tif
Tagged Image File Format, uncompressed or packbits
compressed
*.png Portable Network Graphics, compressed with no loss in
quality

Automatic Level Transparency

3D mode
Selection color
Rubberband color
Show compass
Compass position
Compass offset

Select this option to draw network objects on underlying
layers with a decreasing level of transparency.
If this option is not selected, the network objects on all layers
are displayed the same way.
Toggle 3D mode
Color of selected network objects
Color of rectangle dragged open with the mouse for network
object selection
The compass rose to show the cardinal direction in the Network
editor Red tip = North
Display position of compass rose in the Network Editor You may
turn the compass rose.
Relative position of compass rose in the Network Editor
First value: x position, default 0
Second value: y position, default 0

Show legend

Select this option to display the legend at the legend
position. The legend contains a description of the symbols and
colors of the network object types, for which under Graphic
parameters, you selected Legend contains .

Legend offset

First value: Number of pixels by which the legend is moved
towards the x-axis. Default 10
Second value: Number of pixels by which the legend is
moved towards the y-axis. Default 10
Position in Network editor Default value Bottom right
Factor for enlarged or reduced display of the legend. Value
range 0.01 to 100. Default 1.0

Legend position
Legend scale

163

4.2.5 Using textures

4.2.5

Using textures
Textures are graphic files which you can select instead of the default colors for the display of
the following elements in 3D mode:
Sky: a hemisphere is automatically displayed above the Vissim network. The texture is projected on it.
Note: A texture is displayed for the sky only if the graphics card of the computer has
at least a 16-bit Z-buffer. Otherwise, the insufficient depth resolution causes display
problems.
Land: The texture is displayed on the land area in which the Vissim network is located. If
the texture is less than the land area, it is displayed in a tiled format.
Links, connectors, areas, ramps and stairways: The texture is displayed in a tiled format on
these network objects.
You can select textures for network objects in the display types (see "Defining display types"
on page 300).
You can select textures for the sky and landscape via the 3D graphic parameters (see "Editing
3D graphic parameters" on page 184).

4.2.6

Defining colors for vehicles and pedestrians
Vissim can visualize individual vehicles and/or pedestrians as well as classified parameters
for links and areas. Visualization depends on the following graphic parameters and attributes:
Links: Links list > Show individual vehicles attribute or Link window > Display tab > Individual vehicles option (see "Attributes of links" on page 383)
Areas: Areas list > Show individual pedestrians attribute or Pedestrian Area window >
Visualization section > Individual pedestrians option (see "Attributes of areas" on page
848)
Ramps & Stairs: Ramps & Stairs list > Show individual pedestrians attribute or
Ramps/Stairways/Escalators/Moving Walkways window > Visualization section > Individual pedestrians option (see "Attributes of ramps, stairs, moving walkways and escalators" on page 861)
Graphic parameter Use color scheme for links, vehicles in network, pedestrians in network, areas, ramps & stairs (see "List of graphic parameters for network objects" on page
152).
You have the following options to visualize individual vehicles and pedestrians in color:
via colors and color distributions of classes and types of the vehicles, pedestrians or public transport lines (see "Static colors of vehicles and pedestrians" on page 165)
for vehicles, color based on dynamic simulation data (see "Dynamically assigning a color
to vehicles during the simulation" on page 165)

164

4.2.6 Defining colors for vehicles and pedestrians
color based on attributes (see "Assigning a color to vehicles based on an attribute" on
page 167), (see "Assigning a color to pedestrians based on an attribute" on page 168)
The status of signal heads is displayed at their position by a colored bar in addition to the
vehicles, for example red, red-amber, green.
You can assign display types to links and construction elements (see "Defining display types"
on page 300).
You can visualize links, areas, ramps, and stairs based on aggregated parameters (LOS) (see
"Assigning a color to links based on aggregated parameters" on page 169), (see "Assigning a
color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)" on page 172), (see "Assigning a color
to ramps and stairs based on aggregated parameters (LOS)" on page 180).

4.2.6.1

Static colors of vehicles and pedestrians
Static colors are used for vehicles or pedestrians if neither the automatic nor the user-defined
dynamic coloring is active. Static colors are defined via the attributes of the vehicle type, the
pedestrian type, the vehicle class or the pedestrian class. For PT vehicles, the color is taken
from the respective PT line.
The table indicates which color is used, if you have defined colors for multiple objects:
Defined by
type
Color
distribution
Color
distribution
Color
distribution
Color
distribution

Defined by
class
-

Defined by bus line/tram
line
-

Color

Display color based on
Vehicle type, pedestrian
type
Vehicle class, pedestrian
class
PT line
Vehicle class, pedestrian
class

The color of a PT line has priority over the color distribution of a vehicle type and the color of a
vehicle class or pedestrian class has priority over the color distribution of a vehicle type and a
PT line.
If a vehicle or pedestrian type belongs to multiple classes, vehicles or pedestrians of each type
are displayed in the color of the first class of these classes which has a defined color.
At the same time, you can also display the link segments in the simulation with colors based
on vehicular parameters (see "Assigning a color to links based on aggregated parameters" on
page 169).

4.2.6.2

Dynamically assigning a color to vehicles during the simulation
You can automatically assign vehicles a color based on their current status during the
simulation. Thus you obtain information about the movements of a vehicle in the simulation.

165

4.2.6 Defining colors for vehicles and pedestrians
If the 3D models used do not only contain polygons with dedicated colors, automatic dynamic
coloring also works in 3D mode.
At the same time, you can also display the link segments in the simulation with colors based
on vehicular parameters (see "Assigning a color to links based on aggregated parameters" on
page 169).
1. Press CTRL+E in the Network Editor during the simulation.
The graphic parameter Color by driving state is selected. The following colors are used for
vehicles and are listed in descending priority. You cannot change these colors:
Color
White

Description
In queue: The vehicle is stuck in a traffic jam. At least one queue counter must be
defined in the network.
Light
Waiting for lane change: Vehicle has been waiting more than 6s at the last
blue
position for lane change (emergency stop distance).
Teal
Ignores priority rule: Vehicle ignores priority rule to resolve a deadlock
situation.
Black In priority rule deadlock situation: Vehicle is part of a deadlock situation
caused by priority rules
Orange Wants to change lanes: Due to the vehicle route, a lane change becomes
necessary that the vehicle has not yet begun.
Light
Is changing lanes: Vehicle is changing lanes.
green
Dark
After lane change: Lane change was performed in the last 6 s.
green
Dark
Brakes to change lanes: Vehicle brakes, as it need to change lanes.
red
Amber Brakes cooperatively: Cooperative braking for an upcoming lane change
maneuver of a vehicle, from an adjacent lane to its own lane.
Red
Sleep: Vehicle is currently not paying attention.
Dark
Ignores signal: Vehicle has decided in the last 3 seconds of simulation to
yellow traverse a red signal head or a blocked section of a priority rule because its
speed was too high to come to a stop in advance.
Pink
Brakes heavily: Vehicle brakes heavily (< -3.0 m/s²).
Purple Brakes moderately: Vehicle brakes moderately (-3.0 m/s² to -1.0 m/s²).
Navy
Default: All other states (default)
blue
2. Press CTRL+E again, to deactivate the graphic parameter Color by vehicle state. The
vehicle color is then no longer assigned based on simulation data.

166

4.2.6 Defining colors for vehicles and pedestrians

4.2.6.3

Assigning a color to vehicles based on an attribute
Note: A vehicle color based on an attribute is only displayed if the colors are not
assigned automatically during the simulation (see "Dynamically assigning a color to
vehicles during the simulation" on page 165).
You may also display link segments in the simulation in colors based on traffic- related
parameters (see "Assigning a color to links based on aggregated parameters" on page 169).
1. On the Network objects toolbar, next to Vehicles In Network, click the Edit graphic
parameters button

The list with the graphic parameters of the network object type opens (see "List of graphic
parameters for network objects" on page 152).
2. In the Drawing mode list box, click Use color scheme.
3. In the list of graphic parameters, click Color scheme configuration.
The window Edit Color Scheme for Vehicles In Network opens.
If the window does not open because the option has already been deactivated once since
program start, click the

icon at the end of row to open the window.

4. Make the desired changes:
Symbol

Element
Attribute

Predefined
color
scheme

167

4.2.6 Defining colors for vehicles and pedestrians
Element
Description
Class
Edit color scheme. From the shortcut menu, choose Add to add a new row to
bounds and the list and define additional class bounds and colors.
colors list
Lower bound column: Value that represents the lower bound of the
selected attribute within this value range. Based on value range after
MIN, on upper bound of the row above.
Upper bound column: Value that represents the upper bound of the
selected attribute within this value range. The upper bound belongs the
value range.
Column Color: Select the color. You may also enter RGB values.
The unit of the values depends on the attribute selected and is displayed in
the Classification section, below the attribute selected.
Range
Enter a factor for the upper bound and lower bound
scale
Apply button: Multiply values of upper bounds and lower bounds by a
factor
factor
5. If you want to change the RGB values in the Color column, double-click the desired row.
6. Select the desired colors.
7. Confirm with OK.

4.2.6.4

Assigning a color to pedestrians based on an attribute
In the 2D mode, pedestrians are displayed as colored oval shapes. You may assign individual
pedestrians a color based on attribute values.
Areas in which pedestrians move can be displayed based on LOS schemes (see "Assigning a
color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)" on page 172).
1. On the Network objects toolbar, next to Pedestrians In Network, click the Edit graphic
parameters button

The list with the graphic parameters of the network object type opens (see "List of graphic
parameters for network objects" on page 152).
2. Then select Color scheme configuration.
The window Edit Color Scheme for Pedestrians In Network opens.
If the window does not open because the option has already been deactivated once since
program start, click the

icon at the end of row to open the window.

3. Make the desired changes:

168

4.2.7 Assigning a color to links based on aggregated parameters
Symbol

Element
Attribute

Predefined
color
scheme

Element
Description
Class
Edit color scheme. From the shortcut menu, choose Add to add a new row to
bounds and the list and define additional class bounds and colors.
colors list
Lower bound column: Value that represents the lower bound of the
selected attribute within this value range. Based on value range after
MIN, on upper bound of the row above.
Upper bound column: Value that represents the upper bound of the
selected attribute within this value range. The upper bound belongs the
value range.
Column Color: Select the color. You may also enter RGB values.
The unit of the values depends on the attribute selected and is displayed in
the Classification section, below the attribute selected.
Range
Enter a factor for the upper bound and lower bound
scale
Apply button: Multiply values of upper bounds and lower bounds by a
factor
factor
4. If you want to change the RGB values in the Color column, double-click the desired row.
5. Select the desired colors.
6. Confirm with OK.

4.2.7

Assigning a color to links based on aggregated parameters
During a simulation, you can display traffic-related parameters classified by color based on
link segments. For these traffic- related parameters, you can select result attributes of the
current simulation, e.g. volume, density, emissions or delay time (relative). For visualization of
the data, you can define colors or select color schemes that have been predefined, e.g. for
volume, density, emissions or delay time (relative). Thus you can easily differentiate the
vehicular parameters on the individual links during the simulation in the network, for example,
to quickly locate a hotspot in a large network.

169

4.2.7 Assigning a color to links based on aggregated parameters
You can make similar settings for pedestrians in areas (see "Using LOS schemes for showing
aggregated pedestrian values" on page 176).
At the same time, you can also display the vehicles in the simulation in color based on their
attributes or simulation data (see "Assigning a color to vehicles based on an attribute" on page
167), (see "Dynamically assigning a color to vehicles during the simulation" on page 165).
1. Before starting the simulation, from the Evaluation menu, choose > Configuration > Result
Attributes tab > Links and make the following settings:
2. Select Collect data.
3. Into the From time and To time boxes, enter the simulation seconds during which you want
to collect data for a classified display.
4. Into the Interval box, enter the length of the time intervals for which you to aggregate data.
5. Click the More button.
6. Select how you want the data to be collected:
per lane segment: separately for each lanes
per link segment: for all lanes together
7. In the network objects toolbar, next to Links, click the Edit graphic parameters button

The list with the graphic parameters of the network object type opens (see "List of graphic
parameters for network objects" on page 152).
8. In the Drawing mode list box, click Use color scheme.
9. In the list of graphic parameters, click Color scheme configuration.
The Edit Color Scheme for Links window opens.
If the window does not open because the option has already been deactivated once since
program start, click the

icon at the end of row to open the window.

Under Classification based on, Lanes or Lane segments is selected. This depends on the
option per lane segment or per link segment of the configuration of the evaluation for links
(see "Showing data from links in lists" on page 1043).
10. In the Classification based on area, select Segments. Lanes have static attributes only.
11. Make the desired changes:

170

4.2.7 Assigning a color to links based on aggregated parameters
Symbol

Element
Attribute

Predefined
color
scheme

Description
Opens an attribute selection window. The result attributes
can be filtered (see "Setting a filter for selection of
subattributes displayed" on page 110).
Select pre-defined color scheme list box: Select a defined
color scheme and show it in the list below. The color
schemes vary in color and class bound:
Red-yellow-green: 11 classes, class size by default
0.500, 11 colors
Speed: 11 classes, 11 colors from pink to red, yellow,
green to MAX = white
Density: 11 classes, 11 colors from white to light blue,
blue to MAX = white
Volume: 11 classes, 11 colors from white to light blue,
blue to MAX = white
Relative delay: 11 classes, 11 colors from white to light
blue, blue to MAX = white

Element Description
List
Lower bound column: Value that represents the lower bound of the selected attribute within this value range. From MIN, based on upper bound of
the row above.
Upper bound column: Value that represents the upper bound of the selected attribute within this value range. The upper bound belongs the value
range.
Column Color: Select the color. You may also enter RGB values.
The unit of the values depends on the attribute selected and is displayed in the
Classification section, below the attribute selected.
Range
Enter a factor for the upper bound and lower bound
scale
Apply button: Multiply values of upper bounds and lower bounds by a
factor
factor
12. If you want to change the RGB values in the Color column, double-click the desired row.
13. Confirm with OK.

4.2.7.1

Examples of colored links based on aggregated parameters
Speed attribute:

171

4.2.8 Assigning a color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)

Density attribute:

4.2.8

Assigning a color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)
During a simulation, you can show a grid-based or area-based display of pedestrian attribute
values according to different LOS schemes (see "Using LOS schemes for showing aggregated
pedestrian values" on page 176) . During simulation, this allows you to easily distinguish
between different areas in the network, e.g. in order to identify relevant differences in the
pedestrian density of a an area or different pedestrian speeds. You can set the display to 2D
or 3D mode.
When you choose Areas as a basis for classification, you can also show result attributes
during the simulation, namely the parameters Speed and Density and define classes for
them.
When as a basis for classification, you select Pedestrian Grid Cell Data, a grid is placed
over the network that is used as a basis to record its density, density of worst interval,
expected density, expected density of worst interval, speed and speed of worst pedestrian
interval. The parameter values are determined by cell and are visualized through the cell
color. For technical reasons, the 2D and 3D display might slightly differ where there is a
transition from areas to ramps and stairways.

172

4.2.8 Assigning a color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)
Note: To record these data, you need to configure the recording in the evaluation of
areas and ramps (see "Evaluating pedestrian density and speed based on areas"
on page 974). Otherwise, areas are displayed in their static colors during the
simulation.
You can, for example, show the average density in color during the last evaluation interval
of the simulation. To do so, select the attribute Density / Current run x Last completed.
Afterwards, during the simulation run, you can watch how the colors change depending on
the evaluation interval.
If the data of the attribute set is not yet available, because the time interval selected has not
begun yset, each area or cell is displayed in its static color. The latter is also used when no
color scheme has been activated.
In 2D mode, areas, ramps, and stairs defined for separate levels are displayed in different
transparent shades, depending on the height of the level they are on. This means the
colors can no longer be directly compared in the LOS display. For a comparison, open a
Network editor for each level whose objects you want to compare, and in it show the
respective level only. The objects are then shown in opaque colors and can be compared
in different Network editors.
In 3D mode, areas, ramps, and stairs on different levels are not displayed in "transparent"
in a Network. If you want to hide individual areas, ramps or stairs for comparison, in the
attributes of these objects, select a display type with the attribute invisible (see "Defining
display types" on page 300). Go to the graphic Parameters of the network object type, if you
want to select the transparent type of display for all network objects of a 2D and 3D network
object type: Fill style Solid fill and fill color with the Alpha value set to 0 in the color
definition (see "List of graphic parameters for network objects" on page 152).
You can make similar settings for links (see "Assigning a color to links based on aggregated
parameters" on page 169).
You can simultaneously show the pedestrians in color. This is based on the attributes of the
pedestrians (see "Assigning a color to pedestrians based on an attribute" on page 168).

4.2.8.1

Parameter-based area visualization - grid-based or area-based
You can choose between grid-based or area based for area visualization. You then configure
and activate visualization in the graphic parameters of the network object type Areas.
Option 1: Parameter-based area visualization - area-based
1. Before starting a simulation, make the following settings:
2. From the Evaluation menu, choose Configuration > Result Attributes tab > Areas &
ramps.
3. Select Collect data.
4. Into the From time and To time boxes, enter the simulation seconds during which you want
to collect data for a classified display.
5. Into the Interval box, enter the length of the time intervals for which you to aggregate data.

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4.2.8 Assigning a color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)
6. Confirm with OK.
Option 2: Parameter-based area visualization - grid-based
1. Before starting a simulation, make the following settings:
2. From the Evaluation menu, choose > Configuration > Result Attributes tab.
3. In the Pedestrian Grid Cells row, select Collect data.
4. If desired, change the time and/or the interval (see "Configuring evaluations of the result
attributes for lists" on page 954).
5. Click the More button.
The Pedestrian Grid Cells window opens.
6. Make the desired changes (see "Grid-based evaluation of pedestrian density and speed"
on page 977).
7. Confirm with OK.
8. Confirm with OK.

4.2.8.2

Activating parameter-based area visualization
1. On the Network object toolbar, next to Areas, click the Edit graphic parameters button
.
The list with the graphic parameters of the network object type opens (see "List of graphic
parameters for network objects" on page 152).
2. In the Drawing mode list box, click Use color scheme.
3. In the list of graphic parameters, click Color scheme configuration.
If the window does not open because the option has already been deactivated once since
program start, click the

icon at the end of row to open the window.

4. For an area-based classification, in the Classification based on section, select Areas.
5. For a grid-based classification, in the Classification based on section, select Pedestrian
Grid Cell Data.
6. Make the desired changes:

174

4.2.8 Assigning a color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)
Symbol

Name
Attribute

Description
Opens a window that allows you to select an attribute or
subattribute.
Density
Density - duration exceeding threshold
Density (worst interval)
Level
Density experienced
Experienced density - duration exceeding threshold
Experienced density (worst interval)
Speed
Speed - duration exceeding threshold
Speed (worst interval)
Speed variance
Velocity variance - duration exceeding threshold
Ramp/Stairs

Predefined
color
scheme

If in the evaluation configuration of pedestrian-grid cells, Only
last interval is selected, this enables the attributes Density
(worst interval), Experienced density (worst interval) and
Speed (worst interval) to display the corresponding results
aggregated.
The result attributes can be filtered (see "Setting a filter for
selection of subattributes displayed" on page 110).
Open the Select pre-defined color scheme list box (see
"Using LOS schemes for showing aggregated pedestrian
values" on page 176): Show a defined color scheme in the
Class bounds and colors: list. The color schemes vary in
color and class bound.

175

4.2.8 Assigning a color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)
Name
Class
bounds and
colors list

Description
Edit color scheme. From the shortcut menu, choose Add to add a new row
to the list and define additional class bounds and colors.
Lower bound column: Value that represents the lower bound of the
selected attribute within this value range. From MIN, based on upper
bound of the row above.
Upper bound column: Value that represents the upper bound of the
selected attribute within this value range. The upper bound belongs the
value range.
Column Color: Select the color. You may also enter RGB values.
The unit of the values depends on the attribute selected and is displayed in
the Classification section, below the attribute selected.

Range scale
factor

Enter a factor for the upper bound and lower bound
Apply button: Multiply values of upper bounds and lower bounds by a
factor

7. If you want to change the RGB values in the Color column, double-click the desired row.
8. Select the desired colors.
9. Confirm with OK.

4.2.8.3

Using LOS schemes for showing aggregated pedestrian values
Alternatively, or in addition to displaying individual pedestrians in areas, on stairways, ramps,
moving sidewalks, and escalators, you can choose the LOS scheme to show aggregated
values in color, according to a color code. Using the LOS scheme is a quick and easy way to
gain an overview. You may also select a pre-defined red-yellow-green scheme.
Note: Areas that have reached or exceeded a capacity limit are displayed in red in all
predefined LOS schemes. This allows you to easily identify them.
You can choose to classify all areas and ramps by color, or only a user-defined square grid.
You can also choose the class boundaries for each color and the attribute, whose value
determines the class.
Predefined LOS schemes
Both subsequent tables contain predefined LOS schemes, which you can select in the Edit
color scheme window, in the graphic parameters for areas, ramps & stairs (see "Assigning a
color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)" on page 172), (see "Assigning a color
to ramps and stairs based on aggregated parameters (LOS)" on page 180) . Under
Classification by color , you select a suitable attribute. When a predefined LOS-scheme is
selected, its predefined colors and class bounds are displayed in the Class bounds and
colors list. You can edit the colors and class bounds.

176

4.2.8 Assigning a color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)
Default schemes used in literature
Scheme

Pedestrian
movements

Stairway

Waiting
situations

Attribute

Fruin

Density
[Ped/m²]
There is a different scheme for each pedestrian movement, stairs and waiting situation.
According to Fruin the breakpoints that determine the various levels-of-service have been
determined on the basis of the walking speed, pedestrian spacing, and the probabilities of
conflict at various traffic concentrations.
Numerically, these breakpoints are specified as density or flow. By defining both density and
flow limits, Fruin provides the traffic planner with the right strategy, as the level-of-service
concept is meant to assess walking quality up to a capacity limit. As soon as this limit is
exceeded, the capacity is neglected.
Weidmann
Density
[Ped/m²]
Weidmann follows Pushkarev and Zupan and the HCM in stating eight criteria for
assessment of pedestrian walkway quality. Using eight further references, he describes the
level limits in words. Weidmann does not explain how his description in words is converted
into numerical limits.
HBS
Density
[Ped/m²]
There is a different scheme for each pedestrian movement and waiting situation.
These level limits are similar to those of HCM (e.g. rounded values of metrical HCM data).
The importance of considering the effective width (or area) is pointed out. In addition, a factor
is given for calculation of the effective density with contraflows. Vissim calculates the level of
service based on the geometric area and does not account for contraflows.
HCM
Density
[Ped/m²]
There is a different scheme for each pedestrian movement and waiting situation.
HCM refers to Fruin as originator of the LOS concept, but the breakpoints between levels are
set at considerably smaller values.
Pushkarev-Zupan
Density
[Ped/m²]
Pushkarev and Zupan, along with Fruin, are credited in the HCM for having initiated and
done the principal work in developing the LOS concept.
Polus
Density
[Ped/m²]
Pre-defined LOS scheme with five levels Breakpoint values are based on measurements
recorded in Haifa.
Tanaboriboon-Guyana
Density
[Ped/m²]

177

4.2.8 Assigning a color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)
Scheme

Pedestrian
Stairway
Waiting
Attribute
movements
situations
The breakpoint values for this six-level scheme are based on measurements recorded in
Bangkok. So this is the only typically Asian scheme. It is the only LOS scheme with all
breakpoint values higher than the ones of the walkway LOS of Fruin.
Teknomo
Speed [km/h]
In contrast to density-based LOS, this speed-based LOS scheme uses the opposite
sequence (starting with the worst LOS), as with increasing speed the LOS becomes better.
Schemes for user-defined classification
Scheme
Density
Speed

4.2.8.4

Attribute
Density in pedestrians/m²
Speed in km/h

Examples of visualization of pedestrian parameters
Typical area-based visualization of essential parameters - examples
Example 1: Parameter Speed, with default settings:

Example 2: Parameter Density, with default settings:

178

4.2.8 Assigning a color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)

Typical grid-based visualization of essential parameters - examples
The parameters are depicted with the help of the simulation in the example file ..\Examples
Training\Pedestrians\Counterflow\Counterflow-2Rooms - Simple.inpx.

The image above is the result of the following configuration:
Parameter
Scheme
Cell size
Range of influence

Value
LOS: User-defined: Density
1.0 m
1

The image below is the result of the following configuration:
Parameter
Scheme
Cell size
Range of influence

Value
LOS: User-defined: Density
0.2 m
5

179

4.2.9 Assigning a color to ramps and stairs based on aggregated parameters (LOS)

4.2.9

Assigning a color to ramps and stairs based on aggregated parameters (LOS)
During a simulation, you can visualize and classify traffic-related parameters of pedestrians on
ramps and stairs based on different LOS schemes (see "Using LOS schemes for showing
aggregated pedestrian values" on page 176) . Thus you can easily distinguish between
different traffic parameters at different positions in the network during simulation, for example,
to quickly locate a hotspot in a large network.
You can make similar settings for pedestrians in areas and vehicles on links (see "Assigning a
color to areas based on aggregated parameters (LOS)" on page 172), (see "Assigning a color
to links based on aggregated parameters" on page 169).
You can simultaneously show the pedestrians in color. This is based on the attributes of the
pedestrians (see "Assigning a color to pedestrians based on an attribute" on page 168).
1. Before starting a simulation, make the following settings:
2. From the Evaluation menu, choose Configuration > Result Attributes tab > Areas &
ramps.
3. Select Collect data.
4. Set the parameters as required.
5. Confirm with OK.
6. Confirm with OK.
7. On the Network object toolbar, next to Ramps & Stairs, click the Edit graphic parameters
button

The list with the graphic parameters of the network object type opens (see "List of graphic
parameters for network objects" on page 152).
8. In the Drawing mode list box, click Use color scheme.
9. In the list of graphic parameters, click Color scheme configuration.
The window Edit Color Scheme for Ramps & Stairs opens.
If the window does not open because the option has already been deactivated once since
program start, click the

icon at the end of row to open the window.

10. Make the desired changes:
Symbol

Element
Attribute

Predefined
color
scheme

180

Description
Opens an attribute selection window. The result attributes can
be filtered (see "Setting a filter for selection of subattributes
displayed" on page 110).
Open Select pre-defined color scheme list box (see "Using
LOS schemes for showing aggregated pedestrian values" on
page 176): Select a defined color scheme and show it in the
list below. The color schemes vary in color and class bound.

4.2.10 Assigning a color to nodes based on an attribute

Element
List

Description
UpperBound column: Enter values. The upper bound belongs the value
range.
Column Color: Select the color. You may also enter RGB values.
The unit of the values depends on the attribute selected and is displayed in
the Classification section, below the attribute selected.

Range
scale
factor

Enter a factor for the upper bound and lower bound
Apply button: Multiply values of upper bounds and lower bounds by a
factor

11. If you want to change the RGB values in the Color column, double-click the desired row.
12. Confirm with OK.

4.2.10

Assigning a color to nodes based on an attribute
You can have nodes displayed in a color based on the values of an attribute. To display nodes
in color, you can select a pre-defined color scheme or define one of your own.
1. On the Network object toolbar, next to Nodes, click the Graphic parameters button

The list with the graphic parameters of the network object type opens (see "List of graphic
parameters for network objects" on page 152).
2. In the Drawing mode list box, click Use color scheme.
3. In the list of graphic parameters, click Color scheme configuration.
The Edit Color Scheme for Nodes window opens.
If the window does not open because the option has already been deactivated once since
program start, click the

icon at the end of row to open the window.

4. Make the desired changes:

181

4.2.10 Assigning a color to nodes based on an attribute
Symbol

Name
Attribute

Predefined
color
scheme

Description
Opens an attribute selection window. The result attributes
can be filtered (see "Setting a filter for selection of subattributes displayed" on page 110).
Open Select pre-defined color scheme list box: Select a
defined color scheme and show it in the Class bounds and
colors list. The color schemes vary in color and class bound:
Red-yellow-green: 11 classes, class size by default
0.500, 11 colors
Speed: 11 classes, 11 colors from pink to red, yellow,
green to MAX = white
Density: 11 classes, 11 colors from white to light blue,
blue to MAX = white
Volume: 11 classes, 11 colors from white to light blue,
blue to MAX = white
Relative delay: 11 classes, 11 colors from white to light
blue, blue to MAX = white
Level-of-service value: six classes, six semi-transparent
colors from blue to green and yellow to MAX = red

Name
Description
Class
Edit color scheme. From the shortcut menu, choose Add to add a new row to
bounds and the list and define additional class bounds and colors.
colors list
Lower bound column: Value that represents the lower bound of the
selected attribute within this value range. Based on value range after
MIN, on upper bound of the row above.
Upper bound column: Value that represents the upper bound of the
selected attribute within this value range. The upper bound belongs the
value range.
Column Color: Select the color. You may also enter RGB values.
The unit of the values depends on the attribute selected and is displayed in
the Classification section, below the attribute selected.
Range
Enter a factor for the upper bound and lower bound
scale
Apply button: Multiply values of upper bounds and lower bounds by a
factor
factor
5. If you want to change the RGB values in the Color column, double-click the desired row.
6. Select the desired colors.
7. Confirm with OK.

182

4.3 Using 3D mode and specifying the display

4.3

Using 3D mode and specifying the display
The 3D mode is used to show networks during a simulation or presentation in 3D. You use the
2D mode to edit networks and network objects (see "Calling the 2D mode from the 3D mode"
on page 149).

4.3.1

Calling the 3D mode from the 2D mode
On the Network editor toolbar, click the

2D/3D button.

The button changes to
. The Vissim network and vehicles are shown in 3D. The
network can be viewed from any desired perspective.
Notes:
When you load a bitmap graphic file and then call the 3D mode, the graphic file is
converted into a texture. This might delay the 3D display and require more memory.
Calculation of the size of a rectangular area accounts for static 3D models. This prevents problems arising through the display of very large models and gaps from
being created between models and the area.
Tip: When you edit display options in the graphic parameters, your changes are saved
to the *.layx file as soon as you save the network file. You can also save a layout as a
*.layx file and to load it again later.

4.3.2

Navigating in 3D mode in the network
In the 3D mode, in the Network Editor toolbar, some features for navigating in the network
differ from the 2D mode:
Button Name
Description
Show entire Vertical and central top view on the network
network
Zoom out
Gradually zoom out network view (see "Zooming out" on page 80)
Zoom in

Gradually zoom in network view (see "Zooming in" on page 80)

Rotate
mode (3D)

Tilt or rotate the network display level vertically or horizontally.
Hold down the mouse button and drag the cursor up or down:
change height and angle of the observer position
Hold down the mouse button and drag the cursor left or right:
rotate the viewing point around the network.
Tip: Alternatively, press the ALT key and hold down the mouse
wheel, while moving the mouse.

Flight mode
(3D)

The observer position is continuously moved through the network
(see "Flight over the network" on page 185).

183

4.3.3 Editing 3D graphic parameters

4.3.3

If you click the button
Mode are deactivated.

Flight mode (3D), the button

If you click the button
Mode are deactivated.

Rotate mode (3D), the button

Rotate mode (3D) and the Rotate

Flight mode (3D) and the Flight

Editing 3D graphic parameters
Note: Graphic parameters can be attributes of the network objects.

1. On the toolbar of the Network Editor, click the button

Edit 3D graphic parameters.

The list of 3D graphic parameters opens (see "List of 3D graphic parameters" on page 184).
2. Select the desired entries.
3. If you want to change colors, double-click the row of the desired 3D graphic parameter.
4. Click next to the list when you want to close it.
The list closes. The 3D graphic parameters are assigned.

4.3.4

List of 3D graphic parameters
You can define the following 3D graphic parameters. You can also change 3D graphic
parameters during the simulation. 3D graphic parameters use the unit set for short distances
m or ft.
Base graphic parameters are taken into account (see "List of base graphic parameters for
network editors" on page 161).
Graphic
parameter
Show land
Show map

Description

Shows or hides land area
Display or hide background map in 3D mode. The desired map must be
selected in the base graphic parameter Map provider (see "List of base
graphic parameters for network editors" on page 161). If you zoom out of the
map view too far, Vissim no longer displays a background map. The
background is then gray.
Land texture Select graphic file for land area
Land texture Length of graphic in Network Editor
horizontal
length
Land color
Color of land area, if no texture is selected

184

4.3.5 Flight over the network
Graphic
parameter
Sky texture

Description

Allows you to select graphic file with a texture for the sky. The sky is displayed
as a hemisphere with a texture, if the 3D graphic parameter Show land is not
selected.
Sky color
Color of sky, if no texture is selected
Underground Allows you to select graphic file with a texture for the underground. The
texture
underground is displayed as a hemisphere with a texture, if the 3D graphic
parameter Show land is not selected.
Underground Color of the underground, if no texture is selected The underground is
color
displayed in the color selected, if the 3D graphic parameter Show land is not
selected.
Fog mode
Off
Linear: Define display of fog via a range. Enter distances for the 3D
graphic parameters Fog start and Fog end. The 3D graphic parameter
Fog density is disabled.
Exponential: Defines display of fog via a value for the density. The
3Dgraphics parameter Fog start and Fog end are disabled.
Fog density Density value, default value 6.0. With increasing value, the fog looks more
(exponential dense. The Fog mode Exponential must be selected.
mode)
Fog start (lin- Distance of viewer position to the front of the fog. The default value is 0 m.
ear mode)
The Fog mode Linear must be selected.
Fog end (lin- Distance of viewer position to the end of the fog. The default value is 250 m.
ear mode)
The Fog mode Linear must be selected.
Show shad- Show or hide shadows in static 3D models, for pedestrians and vehicles
ows
Shadow
The default value is light gray 80, 0, 0, 0
color
Set the level of transparency: Double-click into the color box and use the
slider under Alpha to set the desired level of transparency.

4.3.5

Flight over the network
You can fly forward or backward over the network in 3D flight mode and change direction and
speed in the process.
1. Make sure that the icon
Editor.

Flight mode (3D) is selected in the toolbar of the Network

2. Press the key of your choice or shortcut:

185

4.3.6 Showing 3D perspective of a driver or a pedestrian
Purpose
Execute flight forward
over the network
Execute flight
backward over the
network
Change direction of
the flight

Increase speed of
flight

4.3.6

Key or shortcut
Hold down the W key.
Hold down the S key.

You have the following options:
To the left: Additionally hold down the A key during flight simulation.
To the right: Additionally hold down the D. key during flight simulation.
Choose direction freely: Hold down the mouse button during
flight simulation, and drag the cursor to the desired position.
Additionally hold down the SHIFT button during flight simulation.

Showing 3D perspective of a driver or a pedestrian
You can select a vehicle or a pedestrian and show the view from their perspective in 3D mode.
You can select another vehicle or pedestrian in any opened network editor to show different
persepectives at the same time.
You can save the 3D perspective of a driver or pedestrian as a camera position. You can use
the driver perspective or pedestrian perspective for AVI recordings (see "Recording a 3D
simulation and saving it as an AVI file" on page 1098).
When you choose the camera position driver perspective, as in reality, the vehicle itself is not
visible. When you choose a camera position outside the driver perspective, parts of the vehicle
are displayed. This allows you to position the camera freely and choose a camera position
attached to a vehicle or inside a vehicle. This applies accordingly to pedestrians.

4.3.6.1

Showing 3D perspective via a Network editor
Note: If under User Preferences, you selected Right-click creates a new object, hold
down the CTRL key for the next step (see "Right-click behavior and action after creating
an object" on page 143).
1. In a Network editor, in the single-step mode, right-click the vehicle or pedestrian of your
choice.
2. From the context menu, choose the respective command.
View From Driver's Perspective
View From Pedestrian's Perspective
In the Network editor, the perspective of your choice is shown in 3D mode.

186

4.3.6 Showing 3D perspective of a driver or a pedestrian

Note: If under User Preferences, you selected Right-click creates a new object, hold
down the CTRL key for the next step (see "Right-click behavior and action after creating
an object" on page 143).
3. If you want to exit the perspective, right-click the Network Editor.
4. From the context menu, choose the respective command.
Leave Driver's Perspective
Leave Pedestrian's Perspective
Tip: Alternatively, you can switch back to the 2D mode.

4.3.6.2

Showing 3D perspective via a result list
1. From the Evaluation menu, choose Result Lists > Vehicles In Network or Pedestrians In
Network.
The result list opens.
2. Click on the desired vehicle or pedestrian in the result list.
3. The vehicle or pedestrian is marked in the Network Editor.
The next step can be more easily executed in single-step mode or at a lower simulation
speed.
4. Double-click the marked vehicle or pedestrian in the Network Editor.
The perspective changes. When the vehicle or the pedestrian reaches its destination, the
perspective is exited automatically.
5. If you want to exit the perspective, right-click or double-click into the Network Editor.

187

4.3.7 Changing the 3D viewing angle (focal length)
6. From the context menu, choose Leave Driver's Perspective or Leave Pedestrian's
Perspective.
The simulation continues to run in 3D mode.

4.3.7

Changing the 3D viewing angle (focal length)
You can select the viewing angle in 3D mode. This corresponds to the setting of the focal
length in photography.
The default perspective in Vissim is 45°. This corresponds to a focal length of 43mm in a
35mm system.
If you want to reduce the perspective by two degrees, press the CTRL+PAGE UP keys.
If you want to enlarge the perspective by two degrees, press the CTRL+PAGE DOWN keys.
The current perspective is displayed in the first column of the status bar during the change.
Notes:
Vissim does not save any changes to the perspective. The default perspective is set
again the next time you open Vissim.
The modification of perspective applies to Rotate mode (3D) and Flight mode (3D)
and all keyframes.
The table displays the corresponding focal lengths for different perspectives:
Perspective
4°
7°
10°
11°
15°
20°
24°
29°

4.3.8

Focal length
(35 mm)
500 mm
300 mm
200 mm
180 mm
135 mm
100 mm
85 mm
70 mm

Perspective

Focal length (35 mm)

38°
40°
44°
54°
65°
72°
81°
90°

53 mm
50 mm
45 mm
35 mm
28 mm
25 mm
21 mm
18 mm

Displaying vehicles and pedestrians in the 3D mode
You can assign 3D models via model distributions to any type of vehicle or pedestrian (see
"Using 2D/3D model distributions" on page 248).

4.3.9

3D animation of PT vehicle doors
Select the desired 3D model of the PT vehicle (see "Using 2D/3D model distributions" on
page 248).
The 3D model of the PT vehicle is displayed.

188

4.3.9 3D animation of PT vehicle doors
For 3D models whose model file *.v3d includes vehicle doors as modeled areas, the opening
and closing of sliding doors or double doors at PT stops is also visualized in the 3D mode.
Tip: Under Base Data > 2D/3D Models, you can use the model Tram - GT8-2S as an
example. With the Bus - EU Standard model, the doors are not modeled as areas. This
is why the opening and closing of sliding doors is not displayed in the 3D mode.

4.3.9.1

Requirements for the animation of doors
Boarding and/or alighting via the door is permitted.
Boarding and/or alighting at the PT stop is permitted.
The door is located at a permissible platform position at the PT stop.
If there is no platform edge and there are thus no passengers, then the door must be located at a permissible position within the PT stop length.

4.3.9.2

Temporal restrictions for opening the doors
The doors are opened for 1.5 seconds as soon as the vehicle comes to a standstill at the PT
stop.

4.3.9.3

Temporal restrictions for closing the doors
For calculated dwell times: The doors start to close 3 seconds prior to the end of the dwell
time.
For passengers in Viswalk: The doors start to close after no passenger has boarded or
alighted the vehicle for 3 seconds.
The closing of the doors always takes two seconds.
During the first of these two seconds, the doors will open again if a passenger wants to
use one of them.
During second of these two seconds, passengers behave as if the doors were already
closed.
Once the doors are closed, the vehicle waits another second before it departs.
The number of time steps depends on the simulation resolution.

4.3.9.4

Moving door polygons when doors are opened
The door is moved perpendicular to the vehicle by 6 cm (duration: 0.3 seconds)
It is further moved by its width in parallel to the vehicle element heading towards the direction with the greater distance to the next door and/or end of the vehicle.
Closing the doors corresponds to moving the door polygons in reverse order and direction.

189

4.3.10 Using fog in the 3D mode

4.3.10

Using fog in the 3D mode
For realistic simulations in 3D mode, you can add fog (see "List of 3D graphic parameters" on
page 184).
Linear mode from Fog start to Fog end. From the observer until Fog start, visibility is
100%. The fog looks dense if you choose a short distance between Fog start and Fog
end. The fog looks less dense, the longer the distance is.
Exponential The fog begins at the location of the observer based on the Fog density
defined in the 3D graphic parameter.
Notes:
Vissim saves no settings with regard to fog. If Vissim is closed and then reopened;
the fog is switched off.
The switching on of fog applies for all keyframes.
Examples of different types of fog effects
Fog mode: Off

Fog mode: Linear
Fog start 0.0 m: Fog starts at the location of the
observer.
Fog-end 100.0 m: Visibility extends until the point
of Fog end.
Fog mode: Linear
Fog start 40.0 m: Fog starts at a distance of 40 m
from the observer.
Fog end 90.0 m: Visibility is limited from the point
of fog start at 40.0 m and extends 50.0 m far until
the point of fog end at 90.0 m.

190

4.3.10 Using fog in the 3D mode
Fog mode Exponential: Fog starts at the position
of the viewer.
Fog density Default value 6.0: Fog density is
relatively low, visibility is not limited.

Fog mode Exponential: Fog starts at the position
of the viewer.
Fog Density: 30.0. This value is five times greater
than the default value 6.0. This means visibility is
very limited.

191

5 Base data for simulation

5 Base data for simulation
The stochastic nature of traffic begs the necessity to provide this type of variability in Vissim
models. The heart of Vissim, Wiedemann's car- following model, accounts for this by
implementing parameters based on stochastic distribution (see "Operating principles of the car
following model" on page 32).
The base data for simulation includes the settings for the entire network and all basic objects
for modeling vehicle and pedestrian movement, e.g. distributions, functions, and behavior
parameters. Base data further contains types and classes. These allow you to group
properties that are the same for many network objects, so that you need not set them for each
individual object.
In addition to input and output attributes, you can define user-defined attributes for all objects.
User-defined attributes may be edited and managed in lists in the same way as predefined
attributes.
For each attribute, you can specify an alternative name as an alias (see "Using aliases for
attribute names" on page 209).

5.1

Selecting network settings
You can select the network default settings.
Vehicle Behavior: Determine gradient from z-coordinate, choose right-side traffic or leftside traffic, activate Driving simulator add-on module (see "Selecting network settings for
vehicle behavior" on page 193)
Pedestrian Behavior: Define various settings for pedestrian behavior (see "Selecting network settings for pedestrian behavior" on page 193)
Units: Select metric or imperial to display the units for length, speed and acceleration (see
"Selecting network settings for units" on page 195)
Attributes: Select separator and string length for indirect attributes that are linked using
the Aggregate function Concatenate (see "Selecting network settings for attribute concatenation" on page 195)
Display: Specify display settings for arrow of 3D traffic signals during red & amber signal,
set angle of compass rose to the north direction, show coordinates of reference points in
the background maps (see "Selecting network settings for 3D signal heads" on page 196),
(see "Showing reference points" on page 197), (see "Selecting angle towards north" on
page 199)
Standard types:
For elevators and elevator groups, specify standard types for display types and area
behavior types (see "Network settings for standard types of elevators and elevator
groups" on page 196)

192

5.1.1 Selecting network settings for vehicle behavior
for the time a vehicle remains in standstill, between backing out of a parking space
and driving forward, after it has left the parking lot: Standard time distribution for the
attribute Direction change duration distribution of the parking lot.
Driving simulator: Activate interface to your external driving simulator. Select vehicle type
and/or pedestrian type you want to control (see "Network settings for the driving simulator"
on page 199).

5.1.1

Selecting network settings for vehicle behavior
1. Select from the menu Base Data > Network Settings.
2. Select the Vehicle Behavior tab.
3. Make the desired changes:
Element
Description
Link gradiAttribute 'Gradient': For driving behavior, the static gradient entered for
ent based
the link during simulation is used. The z coordinates of the link section
on
are ignored.
Z-coordinates: If this option is selected, during simulation the current
gradient for driving behavior is always calculated from the z-coordinates
of the link section on which the front edge of the vehicle is located. The
given static gradient of the link is thereby ignored.
Note: When selecting the option Calculate from z coordinates, make
sure there is no connector, connecting links with a large difference in
altitude (e.g. 0.5 m) over a very short distance (e.g. 1 m).
Traffic reg- Controls the creation of opposite lanes, bus bays, and the driving behavior
ulations
on freeways with a right/left side rule based on the selected traffic regulation:

Specific
power for
HGV

Right-side traffic
Left-side traffic
Power-to-weight ratio of vehicles of the category HGV in [kW/t], with t = metric
ton:
Minimum: Lower limit of specific power. Default: 7.00, value range 1 to
10
Maximum: Upper limit of specific power. Default 30.00, value range 11 s
to 1,000
If you change the settings, the simulation results change even if there is no
vehicle that has exceeded the upper limit or fallen below the lower limit.
Vissim uses the upper and lower limits for interpolation. Then the maximum
acceleration for all trucks can change and thus the simulation results.

5.1.2

Selecting network settings for pedestrian behavior
You can define default values for pedestrian behavior. These serve as a global model
parameters for the pedestrian routes that you define. When changing global model

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5.1.2 Selecting network settings for pedestrian behavior
parameters, you do not change the parameters of the pedestrian routes already defined.
1. From the menu Base Data menu, choose Network Settings.
2. Select the Pedestrian Behavior tab.
3. Make the desired changes:
Element
Description (see "Defining global model parameters" on page 825)
Social force calculation
Search neigh- Maximum distance up to which pedestrians influence each other, default
borhood grid value 5.00 m
size
Potential cell This parameter specifies the distances at which control points are set by
size of
PT vehicles for calculation of the pedestrian route via stairways, ramps or
internal des- through doors. As you are not required to enter intermediate points for
tinations
pedestrian routes here, Vissim calculates the pedestrian route based on
internal routing points of the pedestrian route. Default 0.15 m (see
"Defining global model parameters" on page 825).
Default
only for calculation of the static potential: Specifies the distance up to
obstacle dis- which the nearby walls have a bearing on the distance potential. Default
tance
0.50 m (see "Defining global model parameters" on page 825).

Element
Description (see "Defining global model parameters" on page 825)
Queuing
Queue order The higher this value, the more orderly (one after the other) pedestrians get
in line in areas and elevators (see "Attributes of areas" on page 848), (see
"Elevator attributes" on page 933):
0.0: Pedestrians are standing together in groups
1.0: Queue of pedestrians lined up one behind the other
Default 0.70
Queue
The larger this value, the straighter the queue will look that pedestrians in
straightness areas are waiting in (see "Attributes of areas" on page 848):
0.0: snake shaped queue
1.0: straight queue
Default 0.60

Element
Description (see "Defining global model parameters" on page 825)
Behavior with dynamic potential (see "Dynamic potential" on page 910)
Pedestrians - dirSelect this option to allow for the angle between the fastest and
ection change
shortest path to increase at any speed.
clipping

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5.1.3 Selecting network settings for units
Element
Description (see "Defining global model parameters" on page 825)
Direction change Maximum permitted angle by which the angle between the quickest
angle
and the shortest path can increase from one time step to the next,
default value 4.0°.

Element

Description (see "Defining global model parameters" on page
825)
Computation of experienced Level of Service
Radius for the com- Radius around a pedestrian within which other pedestrians are
putation of the ped- recorded for calculation of pedestrian-based density (see "Showing
estrians personal
pedestrians in the network in a list" on page 809), default value
area:
2.00 m.

5.1.3

Selecting network settings for units
You can display the units for distance, speed and acceleration - either metric or imperial. The
selected units are displayed by default in lists and windows. Many raw data are displayed by
default with metric units.
1. From the Base Data menu, choose > Network Settings.
2. Select the Units tab.
3. Make the desired changes:
Element
All Imperial
All Metric
Length
Speed
Acceleration

5.1.4

Description
All parameters for lengths, speeds and accelerations are displayed in
imperial units.
All parameters for lengths, speeds and accelerations are displayed in
metric units.
Select the desired unit for the parameter.

Selecting network settings for attribute concatenation
In list windows displaying indirect attributes, for the attribute selected, you can consecutively
list the values of all network objects reached via a relation using the Aggregate function
Concatenate. To do so, you can choose a separator and the maximum string length.
1. From the menu Base Data menu, choose > Network Settings.
2. Select the Attributes tab.
3. Make the desired changes:

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5.1.5 Selecting network settings for 3D signal heads
Element Description
Separator Separator used between multiple attribute values specified in lists. Default:
comma
Max.
Maximum number of characters listed in a row for the attribute values output.
string
When the maximum number is reached, the output is cut off. If no value is
length
specified, the output is not cut off.
Default: 255
The box may remain empty. Then the string length is unlimited.

5.1.5

Selecting network settings for 3D signal heads
In the red and amber signal fields of 3D heads, you can select how you want to show arrows.
1. From the Base Data menu, choose > Network Settings.
2. Select the Display tab.
3. Make the desired changes:
Element
Description
Signal head
Black arrow on colored lens: If this option is selected, a black arrow
arrow color red
against a colored background is shown for red & amber. This is the
& amber (3D)
setting according to the regulations in Germany.
Colored arrow on black: If this option is selected, a colored arrow
against a black background is shown for red & amber.
For Green, the setting is always a colored arrow displayed against a
black background.

5.1.6

Network settings for standard types of elevators and elevator groups
The display of the cabin floor, the cabin ceiling, the shaft, and the door is based on a display
type in each case. For each of these display types, you can select a default type.
Each pedestrian in the cabin and each pedestrian alighting from the cabin uses a walking
behavior that is based on an area behavior type. You can select a default type for each of
these area behavior types.
When you open an *.inpx network file saved in a Vissim version that did not yet include
standard types, Vissim will create the standard types automatically.
1. From the Base Data menu, choose Network Settings.
2. Select the Standard types tab.
3. In the Elevators and elevator groups section, in the list boxes, click the entries of your
choice.

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5.1.7 Network settings for standard type of direction change duration distribution
Element
Display type cabin
wall
Display type cabin
floor
Display type cabin
ceiling
Display type shaft

Description
Default display type of cabin walls
Default display type of cabin floor
Default display type of cabin ceiling

Default display type of area between exterior of elevator shaft and
cabin
Display type door Default display type for the elevator door
Area behavior type Default area behavior type of which the pedestrian uses the walking
in cabin
behavior in the cabin
Area behavior type Area behavior type of which the pedestrian uses the walking behaalighting
vior when alighting from the cabin
The selected display type is used as a default for the display of the respective part of the
elevator when defining the elevator and it is displayed in the list of elevator attributes (see
"Elevator attributes" on page 933).
The selected area behavior type is used when defining an elevator group and displayed in the
list of the elevator group attributes (see "Attributes of elevator groups" on page 936).

5.1.7

Network settings for standard type of direction change duration distribution
Time during which a vehicle remains in standstill, between backing out of a parking space and
driving forward, after it has left the parking lot, based on the attribute Direction change
duration distribution of the parking lot. For this attribute, you can select a time distribution. The
default time distribution is 5 s.
When you open an *.inpx network file saved in a Vissim version that did not yet include
standard types, Vissim will create the standard types automatically.
1. From the Base Data menu, choose Network Settings.
2. Select the Standard types tab.
3. In the Parking lots section, in the list Direction change duration distribution, click the
desired time distribution.
The time distribution selected is used as a default value when you define the Direction
change duration distribution used and is displayed in the list of attributes of the parking lot
(see "Attributes of parking lots" on page 469).

5.1.8

Showing reference points
You can define a point in the live map as a reference point and assign it to the corresponding
coordinate of Vissim (see "Mapping Vissim network to background position" on page 371).
The coordinates of both reference points are shown in the network settings.
1. From the Base Data menu, choose > Network Settings.

197

5.1.8 Showing reference points
2. Select the Display tab.
The coordinates are shown in the Background maps area. The entry No map assignment
defined is displayed, when in the Network editor, no network object has been inserted.
Element
Reference
point in
map

Description
The coordinates specify the location of the Vissimnetwork geocoded on the
background map. The Reference point in network is assigned to the
Reference point in map. This means the two reference points overlap.
The coordinates of the reference point in the map are Mercator coordinates.
They refer to the point of intersection of the Equator and the international
prime meridian. The intersection has the coordinates 0.000 (x, horizontal),
0.000 (y, vertical).
Reference The coordinates specify where the Vissimnetwork is anchored to the
point in
reference point on the background map. The coordinates 0.000, 0.000
network
indicate that the reference point in the network lies precisely on the reference
point in the map.
The Vissimnetwork is based on Cartesian coordinates, whereas the
background map is based on Mercator coordinates. This why with increasing
distance from the reference point in the network, deviations occur between
the Vissimnetwork and the background map. However, there are no area
distortions between the Vissimnetwork and the background map where the
reference point in the network and the reference point in the map overlap.
Converting Vissimcoordinates into decimal degrees
You can convert Vissimcoordinates into decimal degrees.
Thereby the following applies:

r
x
y
xm
ym
xn
yn
lon
lat

198

PI: 3,14159265358979
6378137 m equatorial radius at reference object sphere
X coordinate of the point to be converted (Cartesian Vissimsystem)
Y coordinate of the point to be converted (Cartesian Vissimsystem)
X coordinate of the reference point in the network (Cartesian Vissim system)
Y coordinate of the reference point in the network (Cartesian Vissim system)
X coordinate of the reference point in the background map (Mercator)
Y coordinate of the reference point in the background map (Mercator)
Longitude to P (by reference to sphere)
Latitude to P (by reference to sphere)

5.1.9 Selecting angle towards north

You can find programs for the conversion of decimal degrees into other coordinate systems on
the Internet. Check the results obtained for correctness prior to using the data.

5.1.9

Selecting angle towards north
If in your Vissim network, north is not at the top, in the Network Editor, you can turn the
compass rose to have the red tip point north. When you turn the compass rose in the Network
Editor, the background map cannot be shown.
1. Make sure that no background map is displayed (see "List of base graphic parameters for
network editors" on page 161).
2. From the Base Data menu, choose > Network Settings.
3. Select the Display tab.
4. Enter the desired value.
Element
North

5.1.10

Description
Angle to north direction:: degrees, default 0.000 degrees

Network settings for the driving simulator
Notes:
You must have a license for the add-on module.
Verify that the connection to the driving simulator via the interface is configured correctly.
By default, information for developers in English is saved to the installation directory
of your Vissim installation: ..\API\DrivingSimulator_DLL\doc: Driving_Simulator_
Interface.pdf
You can find sample files by default in the installation directory of your Vissiminstallation: ..\api\driving simulator_dll\example\driving simulator text client
1. From the Base Data menu, choose > Network Settings.
2. Select the Driving simulator tab.
3. Make the desired changes:

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5.2 Using user-defined attributes
Element
Driving
simulator
active

Description

Select this option to activate the interface to your external driving
simulator. Up to 1000 vehicles and 1000 pedestrians can be added to the
simulation using a driving simulator. You must select a vehicle type if you
wish to start a simulation.
Vehicle
Vehicle type which is not controlled by Vissim during the simulation, but by
type
your external driving simulator.
Pedestrian Pedestrian type which is not controlled by Vissim during the simulation, but
type
by your external driving simulator.

5.2

Using user-defined attributes
For all the following network objects and base data objects, you may define further attributes in
addition to the input attributes and output attributes:
2D/3D Models
2D/3D Model Segments
2D/3D model distributions
3D signal heads
Elevators
Elevator groups
Elevator doors
Sections
Occupancy distributions
Zones
OD pairs
Display Types
Detectors
Dynamic vehicle routing decisions
Levels
Distance distributions
Lane distributions
Movements
Lanes
Driving behaviors
Vehicles In network
Vehicle classes
Vehicle network performance evaluation
Vehicle travel time measurements
Vehicle route closures
Vehicle route decisions
Vehicle route closure decisions
Vehicle routes (partial)
Partial vehicle routing decisions

200

Backgrounds
Camera positions
Edges
Edge closures
Nodes
Conflict areas
Reduced speed areas
Walking behavior
Power distributions
Signal controllers
Managed lane routes
Managed lane routes - routing
decisions
Managed lanes
Meso turn conflicts
Meso turns
Meso lane
Meso edges
Meso node
Data collection points
Network settings
Location distributions
Public transport lines
Public transport line stops
Partial PT routes
PT partial routing decisions
Partial PT route line stops
Parking Lots
Parking routes

5.2 Using user-defined attributes
Vehicle types
Vehicle Inputs
Vehicle compositions
Areas
Area measurements
Area behavior types
Pedestrians In network
Pedestrian grid cells
Pedestrian classes
Pedestrian-network performance evaluation
Pedestrian travel time measurements
Pedestrian routing decisions
Pedestrian routes (partial)
Partial pedestrian routing decisions
Pedestrian Types
Pedestrian inputs
pedestrian compositions
Weight distributions
Public transport stops
Obstacles

Parking routing decisions
Data Collection
Priority rules
Ramps & stairs
Segments
Signal heads
Signal groups
Scripts
Flow bundles
Static 3D models
Static vehicle routes
Static vehicle routing decisions
Static pedestrian routes
Queue counters
Stop signs
Links
Link behavior types
Delay measurements
Desired speed decisions
Paths
Desired speed distributions
Time intervals
Time distributions

User- defined attributes (UDA) may be edited and managed in lists in the same way as
predefined attributes (see "Creating user-defined attributes" on page 202).
You may read in user-defined attributes additively from another Vissim network (see "Reading
a network additionally" on page 341).
When you open a *.inpx file in which a user-defined attribute is defined whose short or long
name corresponds to the name of an attribute in Vissim, Vissim adds a suffix to the name of
the user-defined attribute:
In the event of a short name: ShortName_UDA_
In the event of a long name: LongName (UDA )
If the short or long name contains a number in the suffix, the other name either
receives a suffix with the same number or no suffix.
Data attribute or formula attribute
For a user-defined attribute, select one of the following data source types:
Data: The user-defined attribute is based on Vissim data. You can create a default
value, minimum value and maximum value and specify the number of decimal places.

201

5.2.1 Creating user-defined attributes
Formula: You create the desired formula using operands, operators, and/or functions.
Use parentheses to structure them. You can define TableLookup function as part of the
formula. The TableLookup function allows you to access attributes and attribute values
of other objects and use them in the formula.
Examples of use
Continue to process result attributes: You define a user-defined attribute that contains a formula for the LOS calculation model of your choice. This formula for instance uses queue
length data, derived from node evaluation and emission factors.
You define user-defined attributes, for which you obtain values via the COM Interface or
DLL interfaces.
Support data calibration: You define user-defined attributes and fill them with real data.
You can show this data in Vissim in lists together with the simulation data. You can then
compare the data of your two sources.
You define user-defined attributes for vehicles or pedestrians of the simulation, add data
via the COM Interface and output this data together with the simulation results, e.g. in a
vehicle record.
You define user-defined attributes for vehicles or pedestrians of the simulation that contain
a formula. This formula contains the LOS calculation model of your choice.
User-defined attributes, predefined
Short name
NextRouteNo

Long name
Next route
number

Object type
Vehicles In Network

UseVehRouteNo Use vehicle
route number

5.2.1

Description
(see "User-defined and dynamic
assigning of vehicle routes" on page
458)
Static vehicle (see "User-defined and dynamic
assigning of vehicle routes" on page
routing
458)
decisions
Partial
vehicle routing decisions
PT partial
routing
decisions
Managed
lanes routing
decisions

Creating user-defined attributes
1. From the Base Data menu, choose > User-defined attributes.

202

5.2.1 Creating user-defined attributes
The User-defined attributes list opens. If no user-defined attribute is defined, only the
column titles are displayed.
2. In the list, on the toolbar, click the Add button

The User-defined attribute window opens.
Tip: Alternatively, you can also open the User-Defined Attribute window via the
following functions: When doing so, you adopt the network object type as the object
type of the user-defined attribute.
On the Network object toolbar, from the shortcut menu of the desired network
object type, choose Create User-Defined Attribute.
In the Attributes list of the desired network object type, right-click the row header of
the desired network object. Then from the shortcut menu, choose User-Defined
Attribute.
In the Attributes list of the desired network object type, on the toolbar, click the
Create User-Defined Attribute button

Note: In lists, you can use the
Attribute selection icon to show and hide attribute
values (see "Selecting attributes and subattributes for a list" on page 106).
3. Make the desired changes:
Element
Object
type

Description
Object type of user-defined attribute (mandatory field)
In addition to the network object types, you can select other object types,
such as Network settings (NETPARA). For NETPARA, choose the data
source type Formula to enter a formula value that you can use as a userdefined constant. Select TableLookup to access NETPARA.
Abbreviated name of user-define attribute (mandatory field)

Short
name
LongName Full name
Comment Optional comment

Element
Data type

Description
A user-defined attribute must have a data type. Select the desired
entry.

Data types allowed:
Acceleration
Acceleration
Bool
For logical statements, true or false. A user-defined attribute that can
only be set to 0 or 1.

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5.2.1 Creating user-defined attributes
Element
Filename
Duration (integer)
Duration (floatingpoint number)
Area (km2)
Area (m2)
Integer
Speed (km/h)
Speed (m/s)
Floating-point number
Length (km)
Length (m)
Length (mm)
Text
Currency
Time

Description
Filename: Reference to a file, for example for a user-defined
attribute, which lists where to find further information.
Time [s] without decimal separator
Time [s] with decimal separator
Square kilometers
Square meters
Integer without decimal separators
Speed (km/h)
Speed (m/s)
Floating-point number with decimal separators
Length (km)
Length (m)
Length (mm)
String
Currency
Time in format hh:mm:ss (12:23:12) or hh:mm (12:23)

Element
Description
Subattributes
Simulation run: only for the following objects:
User-defined attributes of network objects of the data source type
Data that have evaluation attributes and can have user-defined
data attributes. The values of these attributes can only be changed
during the simulation run and are saved to the evaluation database (*.db).
User-defined attributes of the data source type Formula
The values of the user-defined attribute are recorded for each
simulation run. When you show the user-defined attribute in an
attributes list, the attribute values are listed per column for each
simulation run.
Time interval: For user-defined attribute consider time intervals of network object type. The network object type must be assigned time intervals (see "Defining time intervals for a network object type" on page
306). When you show the user-defined attribute in an attributes list, the
attribute values are listed per column for each time interval.
4. Select the desired data source type.
Data: You can set the following attribute values and options. Depending on the data
selected, different boxes and options are displayed in the section on the right.

204

5.2.1 Creating user-defined attributes
Default: For optional entry of a default value
Minimum value: Has Value:
sible value as default.

If this option is selected, choose the smallest pos-

Maximum value: Has Value:
sible value as default.

If this option is selected, choose the largest pos-

Formula: In the section on the right, you can create a formula using the following commands:
Element
Decimals

Description
Number of decimal places for a value with decimal separator

Symbol Description
Open a window with the attributes of the network object type selected in the
Object type box and select an attribute as term. The term is added in blue.

Symbol Description
Select operator that combines one term with another. The operator is added in
black.

Symbol

Possible functions:
Floor(x)
Abs(x)
Truncate(x)
Ceil(x)
Exponential(x)

Description
Open the Insert function window and select a function for the
formula. The function is added in turquoise.
Specifies the greatest integer that is smaller than or equal to x. At
the cursor position FLOOR() is inserted.
Absolute value of x
Truncates the decimal places of x. At the cursor position TRUNCATE
() is inserted.
Specifies the smallest integer that is greater than or equal to x. At
the cursor position CEIL() is inserted.
Forms the exponential function of x. At the cursor position EXP() is
inserted.

205

5.2.1 Creating user-defined attributes
Symbol
Description
GEH Statistic (x; y) Calculates the GEH Statistic for x and y. At the cursor position, GEH
(;) is inserted. The GEH Statistic is a empirical formula widely
used in traffic modeling for the analysis of values. The formula is as
follows:

where:
M: modeled values
C: counted values
Reciprocal(x)
Corresponds to 1/x. At the cursor position RECIPROCAL() is
inserted.
Logarithm(x)
Generates the natural logarithm of x. At the cursor position LN() is
inserted.
Max(x; y)
Forms the maximum of x and y
Min(x; y)
Forms the minimum of x and y
Power(x; y)
Corresponds to x^y. At the cursor position POW() is inserted.
Percent(x; y)
Corresponds to 100*x/y. At the cursor position PERCENT() is
inserted.
Round(x; p)
Rounds x to p places after the decimal point. p is optional. At the
cursor position ROUND(;) is inserted.
StringInNumberl(x) Converts a string into a floating-point number. At the cursor position
STRTONUM() is inserted.
If(b; w; f)
Conditional branching. Outputs w if b is true. Outputs f if b is false.
At the cursor position IF(;;) is inserted.
Root(x)
Forms the square root of x. At the cursor position SQRT() is
inserted.
NumberInString(x) Converts a floating-point number into a string. At the cursor position
NUMTOSTR() is inserted.

Symbol Description
Open the Insert TableLookup window to insert a function of the type
TableLookup into the formula. Select an attribute value of a network object type
and continue to edit it in the formula. The TableLookup function is added in
turquoise.
Network object type: In the list, click the object type you want to use as
the basis of the function. All conditions of the function that follow refer to
the object type selected.
In addition to the network object types, you can select other object types,
for instance Network settings (NETPARA) that contains a user-defined
value. To select another object type, as condition of the TableLookup

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5.2.1 Creating user-defined attributes
Symbol Description
command, e.g. use the value 1 for TRUE.
Variable name: Enter a variable name that starts with a letter. This name
is a so-called loop variable. In each loop, it represents another network
object of the type iterated over.
Insert explaining comments: Inserts an example of a condition and result into the input field that you can overwrite.
The TableLookup function entry box must correspond to the following scheme:
TableLookup(