Uninterrupted Maximum Flow on Signalized Traffic Networks

TL;DR

This paper introduces a traffic signal control strategy that enables vehicles traveling at a recommended speed to pass through signals without stopping, verified through simulation, with implications for traffic flow and road network design.

Contribution

It presents a novel signal control method for uninterrupted flow on signalized roads, including a feedback device and left-turn strategies, validated via simulation.

Findings

Verified the control strategy using RGW-SIM simulation.

Demonstrated potential improvements in traffic flow and network efficiency.

Discussed implications for connected and automated vehicle systems.

Abstract

This paper describes a traffic signal control strategy that allows motorists who travel at a recommended speed on suburban arterial two-way roads with a common cycle time to make every traffic signal. A road-to-traveler-feedback-device (RTFD) advises motorists how fast they should travel to do this. Signalized arterial roads where vehicles that travel at the recommended speed make every traffic signal are termed Ride-the-Green-Wave (RGW) roads. Left-turn-arounds enable vehicles to turn left from two-way RGW-roads to intersecting/orthogonal two-way RGW-road while allowing maximum flow at the intersection. The traffic signal control technique that enables vehicles that travel at the recommended speed to make every traffic signal has been verified using a simulation program (RGW-SIM). In addition to introducing novel traffic signal control strategies, the methods presented in this paper have implications for road network design, public transport control, connected and automated vehicles and environmental impacts.