Dense network traffic models, travel time reliability and traffic management. I: General introduction

This paper is the first of a pair of papers discussing two main themes concerning dense network modelling. These themes are: (1) the changing nature of traffic management technology and the underlying objectives behind traffic management practice, and (2) the use of measures of network reliability in models, especially as an element of the evaluation of alternative network configurations. This paper considers the role and function of dense network models, and their relationships with other transport network models on the basis of the hierarchical view of models. It then explores the peculiar characteristics of dense network models and provides examples of typical models. Changing needs for modelling capabilities, in terms of the evolution of traffic management technology and practice are discussed, pointing the way to future model developments. The companion paper develops the second theme through the definition and application of a set of network reliability indices that may be applied to different trip movements.