Dynamic Spatial Interaction Models: New Directions

Abstract

Spatial interaction models have received a great deal of attention in the past decade. In recent years, various approaches have also been developed to take into account dynamic aspects of spatial interaction models, by means of, for instance, optimal control theory, bifurcation theory, or catastrophe theory. The present paper deals with new directions in dynamic spatial interaction research. The focus is on a general dynamic interaction model analyzed in the framework of optimal control theory. The objective function used is a bicriterion utility model, to be maximized subject to a set of differential equations which bear some resemblance to those used by Wilson in a shopping-centre context. The link between the model presented and a catastrophe type of model is investigated. It is demonstrated that catastrophe behaviour may emerge as a particular case of this optimal control model. Finally, it is shown how external influences (for example, stochastic impacts of the Brownian motion type) affect the optimal trajectory.