Qualitative assessment of the composition of the traffic flow

Shevtsova, Anastasia; Burlutskaya, Alina · 2021 · Crossref

DOI: 10.1051/matecconf/202134100033

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Summary

This paper addresses the limitations of current traffic light regulation standards in Russia, specifically regarding the calculation of saturation flow at controlled intersections. The authors argue that existing methodologies, such as those outlined in ODM 218.6.003-2011, rely on insufficient parameters—primarily turning radius—and fail to account for the increasing heterogeneity of vehicle fleets. As passenger vehicles now constitute 80–90% of traffic and vary significantly in dimensions and performance, the authors contend that accurate traffic management requires a qualitative assessment of traffic composition to improve the precision of saturation flow calculations. The study focuses on a regulated intersection in Belgorod, Russia. To characterize the traffic flow, the authors analyzed vehicle sales statistics and conducted field observations, identifying that light vehicles comprise 85% of the traffic, with buses making up the remaining 15%. They selected 15 common vehicle models found in the area, ranging from compact cars like the Daewoo Matiz to larger vehicles like the BMW 5 series. By analyzing the technical specifications of these models—including engine volume, power, acceleration, dimensions, and weight—the authors derived a "calibrated vehicle" with averaged parameters. This representative vehicle has an engine volume of 1537 cm³, 126 horsepower, and specific dimensional averages intended to reflect the typical passenger car in the flow. Based on this calibrated vehicle concept, the authors propose an improved formula for calculating saturation flux that incorporates previously neglected variables. The new formula accounts for the turning radius, the coefficient of adhesion, the overall length of the calibrated vehicle, driver reaction time, vehicle speed, and steady-state deceleration. The paper emphasizes that factors such as weather conditions, pavement state, and vehicle maneuverability significantly impact throughput. Consequently, the authors developed an algorithm for calculating the optimal traffic light control cycle. This algorithm integrates the new saturation flux formula with geometric intersection characteristics and critical movement speeds to determine phase coefficients and main cycles. The significance of this work lies in its contribution to more accurate traffic light coordination. The authors conclude that the composition of traffic flow has a substantial impact on control modes and that traditional methods are inadequate for modern, diverse vehicle fleets. By introducing the concept of a calibrated vehicle and incorporating detailed technical and environmental parameters into saturation flow calculations, the proposed method allows for the determination of more rational and efficient traffic light cycles. This approach aims to reduce traffic delays and improve the overall throughput of road networks by aligning technical traffic control systems with the actual physical characteristics of the vehicles using them.

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• traffic density