The article outlines the development of a 4- to 16-group user-friendly personal computer (PC) chipset-based traffic controller for local intersections, which was developed by Pacific Traffic Technology. The research and development team aimed to develop a cost-effective traffic controller with: (1) reliability; (2) user-friendly operation; (3) an ability to evolve with user requirements; and (4) considerably different new technology. The controller should be easily configurable to control between four and 16 vehicle and pedestrian groups, through adaptive modelling of realtime traffic conditions and a stored historical record of traffic conditions. A comprehensive performance measurement facility should be included, for continual monitoring of vehicle volume and actual vehicle throughput. The controller's removable flat panel LCD TOUCH VGA screen provides a user-friendly interface, for selecting realtime geometric displays and easily implemented operational modification functions. The distributed traffic signal switching display methodology uses the `data highway' principle, through a local intersection communication network and distributed microprocessor control. The controller has undergone field trials, and simulation modelling of projected traffic, to evaluate its user interface and operational performance.
Abstract