Comparison of local feedback controllers for the mainstream traffic flow on freeways using variable speed limits

Summarization: Two simple controllers for local feedback mainstream traffic flow control (MTFC) on freeways, enabled via Variable Speed Limits (VSL), are proposed. Both controllers are evaluated and compared to a previously developed local MTFC feedback cascade controller and to a sophisticated optimal control approach. All feedback controllers rely on readily available real-time measurements; are simple and robust; and take into account a number of practical and safety restrictions; therefore being suitable for implementations in the field. The evaluations are conducted for a hypothetical freeway network by use of a validated second-order macroscopic traffic flow model. The results show that the feedback controllers exhibit a satisfactory control behavior and, indeed, approach the optimal control results. Recommendations for the operation of the feedback controllers are given.Παρουσιάστηκε στο: 14th International IEEE Conference on Intelligent Transportation System