Project: Optimization of coordinated actuated signal timing

Principle Investigator: Dr. Byungkyu (Brian) Park, University of Virginia, 434-924-6347, bpark@virginia.edu

External Contact: Cathy McGhee, VTRC, Charlottesville, VA 22904, 434-293-1973

Project Objective: Development of an optimization methodology for coordinated actuated signal system. (Full project title: Development of coordinated actuated signal timing optimization methodology)

Project Abstract: This project develops methods for optimizing coordinated actuated traffic signals. "Actuated" signals are those whose red-green cycles continually adapt to changing traffic conditions. "Coordinated" signals are those which are coordinated along a stretch of road so as to optimize traffic flow. Current traffic signal programs, including Synchro, TRANSYT-7F, and PASSER-II, can model actuated traffic signals, but they cannot optimize such signals along a whole corridor. This project will develop a methodology for such optimization.

Tasks: 1) Literature review. 2) Selection of simulation model fidelity (microscopic vs. mesoscopic; and analytical model). 3) Development of optimization algorithm - genetic algorithm and others. 4) Development of sample test-bed network. 5) Comparison with current state of the art program using a simulation test-bed. 6) Compose final report.

Milestones: Completion by June 30, 2006. (Assumes no-cost grant extension.)

Student involvement: 1 full-time GRA for the duration of the project

Budget

FY05

Faculty: 30,000
GRA/Undergrad: 40,000

Match:
Faculty: 30,000
GRA/Undergrad: 40,000

Project Total: 140,000

Relation to other research: This is a follow-on to the ITS Center project "Signal timing algorithm".

Technology Transfer: Papers in professional journals

Potential Benefits: The proposed methodology should improve the development of coordinated actuated traffic signal timing optimization practices. It is also envisioned that existing traffic signal optimization programs would adopt the methodology, if found to be better.

TRB Keywords: Traffic signal, optimization, coordinated actuated signal, simulation