The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the feasibility of implementing a traffic signal optimisation model to improve real-time operations of traffic control systems. Advanced computer algorithms and traffic optimisation techniques can provide benefits over existing systems by reducing delays, improving travel times and reducing environmental emissions. The feasibility of the proposed approach is demonstrated by interfacing the traffic signal optimisation model to a microscopic traffic simulation tool, which enabled the evaluation of the benefits of the algorithm using computers in a controlled environment without disrupting traffic conditions. The main advantage of the proposed algorithm is its ability to detect dynamic changes in traffic flow conditions by using short-term historical demand data obtained from upstream vehicle loop detectors. The experimental results for under-saturated traffic conditions showed that the algorithm's performance was superior to optimal fixed time control. The results also confirmed that as traffic volumes reach saturated conditions, the performance of the algorithm decreased but remained better than what can be achieved by fixed time control systems. (Author/publisher).
Abstract