The use of micro simulation for the design of weaving sections

Abstract

In the Netherlands the American Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) is commonly used for traffic engineering purposes. Because of the differences in traffic legislation and driver behaviour between the Netherlands and the USA, the HCM cannot be used for the design of weaving sections on Dutch freeways. To create a new set of standards for weaving sections, the micro simulation model FOSIM is used. FOSIM is developed in the USA for simulation of traffic flow on multi-lane freeways and is fully revised for use in the Netherlands. The paper presents the results of calibration and validation of FOSIM for weaving sections on Dutch freeways. Moreover, it describes a method of using FOSIM as a tool to create up to date standards for all sorts of freeway sections.