Using Traffic Simulation for Level of Service Traveller Perception Studies

Level of service (LOS) classifications of traffic operational conditions play a significant role in roadway-improvement funding decisions. Traveller perception of LOS should be consistent with traffic analysis values to avoid undermining the public confidence in the transportation agency decisions. Research methods to study traveller perceptions range from in-vehicle videos to focus groups and surveys. These methods have different advantages, but all suffer from time and/or cost inefficiencies for collecting data sets across a wide range of operating conditions. This paper describes a novel method to study this topic with increased time and cost efficiency. This new method combines traffic microsimulation and 3-D visualisation capabilities. The focus of this paper is to provide guidance on how to apply traffic microsimulation and computer 3-D visualisation to evaluate highway trip quality from a traveller’s perspective. It discusses the creation of the simulation environment to produce a realistic view from the vehicle’s cabin interior, including the network creation, landscaped area, dashboard speedometer, and rear-view mirror. The authors also propose an automated method for choosing an appropriate vehicle within the simulated traffic stream, such that the desired overall traffic stream conditions are conveyed to the traveller vehicle within the field of view.

Language

  • English

Media Info

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01845209
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: May 12 2022 5:13PM