A copula-based continuous cross-nested logit model for tour scheduling in activity-based travel demand models

Abstract

This paper introduces a multi-dimensional continuous activity scheduling choice modeling framework. The paper is focused on modeling the joint choice of arrival to an activity and departure from the activity. Each of the choices is modeled in continuous time using the continuous cross-nested logit model. The continuous cross-nested logit model is able to capture various types of correlation between alternatives in continuous time. In addition to the correlation between alternatives, this paper uses copula to capture the correlation between the two dependent choices of arrival to an activity and departure from the activity. Copula can model the correlation structure without knowing the actual bivariate distribution function. With its multidimensionality and ability to capture different sorts of correlations and model demand in fine time resolution, the introduced framework can provide a sufficient tool for the time-of-day component of various travel demand models.