Theoretical Fundamental of Transportation Science—Breakdown Minimization (BM) Principle

Abstract

The minimization of travel times and/or other travel costs in a traffic network based on the state-of-the-art in traffic and transportation research can deteriorate the traffic system considerably, while provoking heavy traffic congestion in urban networks. In this Chapter, we consider an alternative approach for dynamic traffic assignment and control of traffic networks—breakdown minimization principle (BM principle). Methods for traffic control, dynamic traffic assignment, or other types of network optimization based on the BM principle should ensure a minimum probability of traffic congestion in the network.