Bi-level programming model and algorithms for stochastic network with elastic demand

Abstract

Based on a state-of-the-art review of the Road Network Design Problem (RNDP), this paper proposes a bi-level programming model for the RNDP as well as algorithms for it. In the lower level of the proposed model, the elastic-demand Stochastic User Equilibrium (SUE) model is adopted to coincide well with characteristics of users behavior, and additionally, the parameter calibration method for the model is developed based on the Logit path choice model. In the upper level of the proposed model, the consumer surplus is maximized to improve the social benefit of a network in consideration of the travel demand, the construction cost, the off-gas emissions and the saturation level. The algorithm for the lower-level model is developed based on the descent iteration method, Dijkstra’s algorithm and linear search technology. A modified Genetic Algorithm (GA) is developed as the algorithm for the whole bi-level model, which takes designed elitist selection operator, adaptive cross operator, mutation operator and niche technology into consideration. The proposed model and algorithms are applied to a numerical example. The results demonstrate the validity and efficiency of the model and algorithms, which shows a bright prospect of the application in RNDP.

First Published Online: 27 Mar 2015

Keyword : road network, traffic design, bi-level program, elastic-demand stochastic user equilibrium, genetic algorithm