Complex-network-based traffic network analysis and dynamics: A comprehensive review

A traffic network can be viewed as a geometric graph with the nodes representing traffic infrastructures and the edges standing for the links between these nodes. In order to reduce road congestion and enhance traffic efficiency, complex network theory is a widely used research tool. Complex network theory can be used to analyze and evaluate network behaviors for systems with nontrivial structures and dynamical properties. Furthermore, complex network theory can quantitatively capture the structural and dynamical properties of traffic networks. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the complex network-based analysis and dynamics of traffic networks. The measures and properties of complex traffic networks are introduced first. Then the traffic flow characteristics are discussed, and the congestion analysis of complex traffic networks is presented. The robustness of complex traffic networks is also discussed, and the guidance of applying complex network theory in urban transportation is provided. Finally, we highlight a range of challenging open problems that should be addressed in future research and promising research opportunities. •Measures and properties in complex traffic networks are reviewed.•Traffic flow characteristics and congestion management in complex traffic networks are reviewed.•Robustness in complex traffic networks is discussed.•Future research directions are suggested.