Model and Solution Algorithm for Multiclass User Equilibrium Assignment Problem in Degradable Road Network

Abstract This paper proposes a multiclass user equilibrium assignment model for ascertaining the difference in travel choice behavior of different user classes in a degradable road network. In the proposed model, on the basis of travelers' risk attitudes toward network uncertainty, all travelers are categorized into three classes: risk-averse travelers, risk-prone travelers, and risk-neutral travelers. The multiclass user network equilibrium conditions are presented and formulated as a variational inequality (VI) model, and a heuristic solution algorithm for solving the VI model is given. An example is used to illustrate the application of the proposed model and solution algorithm. The study in this paper will help to understand heterogeneous travelers' route choice behavior and can serve as a useful tool for evaluating the effects of various transport policies on different user classes at the strategic level.