A new simulator for laboratory studies of the dynamics of commuter behaviour under realtime traffic information (advanced traveller information systems) strategies is described, and a set of laboratory experiments that used this simulator is discussed. The purpose of the experiments was to examine the behavioural processes underlying commuter decisions on route diversions en route and day-to-day departure time and route choices as influenced by the provision of realtime traffic information. Both the realtime and day-to-day dynamic properties of traffic networks under alternative information strategies - particularly issues of convergence to an equilibrium, stability, and benefits following shifts in commuter trip timing decisions - will also be investigated in the experiments. (Author/publisher)
Abstract