New Algorithm for a Multiclass Dynamic Traffic Assignment Model

Abstract

In this paper, three traveler classes are classified according to different assumptions of travelers’ route choice behavior, including fixed route, stochastic dynamic user optimum, and dynamic user optimum. Note that “multiclass” in this paper refers to travelers’ different realization of traffic conditions, instead of representing vehicle types. The three classes of users are integrated into one dynamic traffic assignment (DTA) model and solved using a newly proposed algorithm. In this paper, variables of link flow and exit flow are represented solely by in-flow. The resulting linear program subproblem in the inner iteration is proved and solved as a typical time-dependent shortest route problem over a physical network. Accordingly, the usually required time-space network expansion in solving DTA models is no longer needed. Computational results from a hypothetical network and the Sioux Falls network are reported and analyzed.