UNJAMMING TRAFFIC CONGESTION

Computer-based traffic signal control systems are described which can speed traffic, increase safety and improve gasoline mileage. One of the most extensive implementations of the basic system (determines actual traffic patterns, compares them with patterns developed off-line and stored in the computer, and then selects a signal-timing plan corresponding to the closest pattern match) is in the city of New York. Advanced systems which would employ software techniques to generate time plans on-line are being developed. In these systems, timing could be continuously optimized to changing traffic patterns. Second generation systems calculate the three parameters, split, offset and cycle length separately in real time from data received from on-site detectors. The highly experimental third generation systems would allow adjacent intersections to have different cycle lengths. The advantages of using microprocessors are pointed out. The details are described of one of the most comprehensive traffic control systems using computer technology, namely, that on the 36-mile northern section of the New Jersey Turnpike just outside the city of New York.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/00189235
• Corporate Authors:

  Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

  3 Park Avenue, 17th Floor
  New York, NY  United States  10016-5997
• Authors:
  • Torrero, E A
• Publication Date: 0

Media Info

• Features: Figures;
• Pagination: p. 77-79
• Serial:
  • IEEE Spectrum
  • Volume: 14
  • Issue Number: 11
  • Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
  • ISSN: 0018-9235

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Information processing; Microcomputers; Traffic congestion; Traffic flow; Traffic signal controllers; Travel patterns
• Uncontrolled Terms: Timing; Traffic patterns
• Subject Areas: Highways; Operations and Traffic Management;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00167616
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Dec 27 1977 12:00AM