Urban traffic network models and dynamic driver information systems

Abstract

The potential for using advanced technology to influence traffic movement and travel behaviour has generated a massive interest throughout the developed world. In‐vehicle, dynamic driver information and dynamic route guidance systems have probably attracted the most attention, with many research activities and field trials planned or currently in progress. Network simulation models have a key role to play, both in assessing the potential benefits (in order to justify the initial investment) and in determining the best means of implementation. There are many who believe that existing models are deficient in a number of ways for evaluating such strategies, and a number have sought to develop new approaches. However, it takes a great many years for a new network model to be fully developed, tested, validated and accepted in the practical world. This review article has three main objectives. First, a review of the state‐of‐the‐art in existing network models is given, with respect to their ability to meet the main requirements for modelling dynamic driver information systems. This is intended to aid practitioners in selecting a model now for their own particular strategy and objectives. The modelling requirements have been identified from a survey of demonstration projects, laboratory experiments and attitudinal studies in this area. Secondly, recent and on‐going research in the network modelling area is reviewed, particularly with respect to the increased understanding of the requirements for simulating dynamic driver information systems which has arisen over the past five years. The intention here is to assess whether current research activities are addressing the full range of issues and whether resources are being appropriately divided. Finally, arising from these reviews, future research directions and priorities are identified.