Simulating Variable Message Signs; Influencing route choice in microsimulation. Variable Message Signs (VMS) have been used for a number of years in many different countries. They constitute an effective tool for traffic management and the optimization of road network use. VMS-systems take many forms and their effectiveness depends on their configuration, local characteristics and driver behaviour. Recent developments in microsimulation have made it possible to simulate VMS-systems within the framework of traffic models. At the same time, accurate forecasting of the effectiveness of VMS is not only dependent on software capabilities but on information about actual driver response. We have developed a new tool for simulating VMS-systems in Paramics simulation models. The stimulus for this came from new developments in the Paramics software. The new assignment process allows the user to directly influence the dynamic route choice of drivers at specific locations during a simulation. This is of particular practical use for modelling VMS-systems as they exist on road networks today. The new VMS tool incorporates elements of existing Dutch VMS systems as well as observed driver response to these systems. A test of the new tool made with a simulation of the urban ring of the city of Maastricht showed that it is functional. The module allows the modeller to determine that all drivers have a specific type off route information at a specific location and to determine the response of the drivers in the simulation. (Author/publisher)
Abstract