Computer-Assisted Traffic Engineering Using Assignment, Optimal Signal Setting, and Modal Split

PDFTech ReportDOT-TSC-RSPA-78-10AlgorithmsBusesCarpoolsEnergy conservationFreewaysFuel consumptionData processingNetworksOptimizationRamps (Interchanges)Strategic planningTraffic assignmentTraffic controlTraffic engineeringTraffic signalsTravel timeUrban transportationUnited StatesUnited States. Dept. of Transportation. Research and Special Programs AdministrationGershwin, Stanley B.Little, J. D. C.Gartner, NathanMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyJohn A. Volpe National Transportation Systems Center (U.S.)NTL-OPERATIONS AND TRAFFIC CONTROLS-OPERATIONS AND TRAFFIC CONTROLSNTL-OPERATIONS AND TRAFFIC CONTROLS-Traffic FlowNTL-HIGHWAY/ROAD TRANSPORTATION-HIGHWAY/ROAD TRANSPORTATIONVolpe National Transportation Systems Center, Technical Reference CenterMethods of traffic assignment, traffic signal setting, and modal split analysis are combined in a set of computer-assisted traffic engineering programs. The system optimization and user optimization traffic assignments are described. Travel time functions are presented for freeways, freeway entrance ramps, and signalized streets. Both single-vehicle and multiple-vehicle class (cars, car pools, and buses) formulations are described. Energy optimization is treated, and gasoline consumption functions for cars and buses are shown. Modal split analysis is described and integrated with the assignments so that the effect of favoring buses and car pools with 'diamond lanes' can be measured. The procedures are described and numerical examples are presented. It is concluded that this approach to traffic engineering is practical and computer programs can be written to analyze major parts of the traffic networks of U.S. cities