A link-based elastic demand equilibrium model with capacity constraints and queueing delays

A link-based elastic demand equilibrium model with explicit link-exit capacities and explicit bottleneck or queuing delays is specified. The model, which is at the borderline between steady state and dynamic equilibrium transport models, may be used to compare different proposed short run ITS strategies (using small or even zero elasticity) and also different proposed long term strategies (using greater elasticity); increasing the consistency between short and long run model evaluations. It is shown that, under very weak conditions, there is a solution to the model. A solution algorithm is suggested and a proof of convergence, under natural conditions, is provided. The model is based on link rather than route flows; so it is suitable for large networks as well as small networks.