O–D matrix estimation based on data-driven network assignment

Time-dependent Origin-Destination (OD) matrices are an essential input to transportation models. A cost-efficient and widely used approach for estimating OD matrices involves the exploitation of flow counts from stationary traffic detectors. This estimation approach is also referred to as assignment-based OD matrix estimation because, typically, Dynamic Traffic Assignment (DTA) models are used to map the OD matrix to the link flows. The conventional DTA establish a complex non-linear relationship between the demand, and the link flows, adding an inherent complexity to the OD matrix estimation problem. In this paper, attempting to exploit the growing availability of Floating-Car Data (FCD), we suggest a solution approach that is based on a Data-Driven Network Assignment (DDNA) mechanism. The DDNA utilises the FCD from probe vehicles to capture congestion effects, providing a linear mapping of the OD matrix to the link flow observations. We present the results of two synthetic-data experiments that serve as proof of concept, indicating that if FCD are available, the computationally costly DTA may not be necessary for solving the OD matrix estimation problem. <b>Abbreviations</b> APR: average penetration rate; DDNA: data driven network assignment; DDNL: data driven network loading; DODME: dynamic OD matrix estimation; DTA:dynamic traffic assignment; FCD: floating-car data; ITS: intelligent transportationsystems; NNLSQ: non-negative least squares; OD: origin destination; ODME: ODmatrix estimation; PV: probe vehicle; RUM: random utility model