Dynamic User-Optimal Departure Time/Route Choice Model

Abstract

The purpose of the dynamic user-optimal (DUO) departure time/route choice problem is to determine the best departure time along with the best route choice decision. The DUO departure time/route choice problem is a generalization of the DUO route choice problem, since the departure times for travelers are not prespecified and are allowed to change in response to different levels of network congestioa The relaxation of fixed trip departure times is appropriate; in many situations, travelers tend to choose the departure time that minimizes their en route travel times, especially when there is no penalty for either early or late arrival. If we consider a work-to-home trip, the choice of departure time is influenced by the wish of the traveler to avoid unnecessary delay en route. In feet, by minimizing an individual’s en route travel time, more efficient utilization of the total network capacity can be reasonably expected. The day-to-day adjustment for commuters will gradually stabilize the departure time choice, thereby influencing the DUO route choice problem.