Preprint 2014-012
On the Braess paradox with nonlinear dynamics and control theory
Rinaldo M. Colombo and Helge Holden
Abstract: We show the existence of the Braess paradox for a traffic network with nonlinear dynamics described by the Lighthill–Whitham–Richards model for traffic flow. Furthermore, we show how one can employ control theory to avoid the paradox. The paper offers a general framework applicable to time-independent, uncongested flow on networks. These ideas are illustrated through examples.