Variational inequality model of ideal dynamic user-optimal route choice

An ideal dynamic user-optimal (DUO) route choice model is described for predicting dynamic traffic conditions, as required for off-line evaluation of Advanced Traffic Management Systems and Advanced Traveler Information Systems. The model is formulated as a variational inequality (VI), a general way of describing a dynamic network equilibrium. Although route-based VI models have an intuitive interpretation, their computational complexity makes them intractable for real applications. Consequently, the proposed model is formulated as a link-based variational inequality for use in large-scale implementations. Using the diagonalization technique with discrete time intervals, the model is solved to a specified level of convergence. Computational results for a real, large-scale traffic network are presented.