Traffic Simulation Model and Its Application for Estimating Saturation Flow at Signalised Intersection

Abstract

The efficiency of a transportation network depends upon the performance characteristics of its various components. To improve the efficiency, proper planning and design of various facilities have to be implemented. For this, simulation models seem to be more powerful than analytical procedure. This paper focuses on simulating traffic movements at signalised intersections by developing a micro simulation model using a high level programming language. The developed model TRAFFICSIM, which is highly user friendly, is capable of simulating any traffic movements at various geometric as well as signal phasing characteristics. TRAFFICSIM is a true replication of the original traffic scenario as it is capable of updating the acceleration, lateral and linear spacing as well as deceleration characteristics which is highly influenced by the traffic behaviour and signal phasing. The validated model is then applied to determine the saturation flow models during 100% car only condition as well as mixed traffic conditions. The saturation flow model developed under 100% car only condition is s = 522w, where s is the saturation flow in pc/hr and w is the carriageway width in m. The saturation flow obtained under 100% car only both in homogeneous condition and in a mixed traffic condition is 1911 pc/hr and 1908 pc/hr respectively which shows close agreement with the HCM values.

Selection of a traffic management scheme at an intersection taking into consideration the traffic flow composition

“…To improve the efficiency of traffic management schemes at intersections, it is necessary to create simulation models that will reflect their operation. This will make it possible to predict more accurately a change in traffic parameters on it than its analytical description [11]. This enables us to argue that in order to redesign the intersection scheme, it is necessary, in addition to analytical calculations, to create a simulation model for determining the maximum length of the queue of vehicles in all its approaches.…”

The influence of the traffic light`s permissive signal share on the duration of traffic delays

“…Therefore, in proportion to the number of vehicles at the intersection of streets, there is a need to install traffic lights to regulate movement. At the same time, this approach should ensure minimal traffic flow delays at the intersection in general [5,6].…”