Evolution of network flows under real-time information: day-to-day dynamic simulation assignment framework

A day-to-day dynamic framework, in which the DYNASMART simulation assignment model was applied to evaluate the performance of traffic networks, was developed to study network dynamics under different information systems. Two levels of tripmaker decision-making processes are identified: (a) day-to-day dynamics and (b) real-time dynamics. Day-to-day dynamics consider the choices of departure time and route according to indifference bands of tolerable 'schedule delay' defined as the difference between the user's actual and preferred arrival times. Real-time dynamics consider en route switching decisions. Numerical experiments were conducted to investigate the day-to-day evolution of network flows under real-time information and assess the effectiveness of such information in a proper dynamic perspective.