Route flow entropy maximization in origin-based traffic assignment

Most solution methods for the static user-equilibrium traffic assignment pr oblem are either link-based or route-based; recently a new origin-based met hod was proposed. In general, link-based solutions are unique, but origin-b ased and route-based solutions are not. Several researchers have suggested that the entropy maximizing route flow solution is the most likely one. In this paper the implications of route flow entropy maximization are studied in the context of origin-based solutions. An alternative intuitive assumpti on is proposed, and the equivalence between the proposed assumption and the entropy maximization criterion is examined. As a result, a natural, easily obtainable route flow interpretation for origin-based solutions is derived . Related improvements to the origin-based solution method are discussed.