This paper presents an assessment of the operational advantages of intelligent traffic signals in congested conditions. Impact of intelligent control on system productivity were first modeled macroscopically and then integrated into a dynamic control algorithm. For intelligent control, signal parameters were dynamically optimized over space and time. For conventional static control, signal parameters were optimized over space but kept static over time. The two types of signals were used to control traffic on a linear arterial network. Results show that intelligent signals can be 25% more productive. More variations of traffic and geometric conditions should be tested before this result may be generalized. Intelligent traffic signals are an integral part of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). An intelligent signal is one that can optimally and dynamically change values of control parameters to respond to emerging traffic conditions. Intelligent signal systems are used for several important reasons including improved mobility and throughput of intersections and links. Modern detection, computing, and communication technologies are used to help achieve this end.
Abstract