Traffic flow effects of Integrated full-Range Speed Assistance (IRSA)

Abstract

This paper discusses the assessment of the effects of integrated full-range speed assistance (IRSA), using the ITS modeller. The aim of IRSA is to assist drivers in their longitudinal driving task by providing speed advice or speed warnings and cruise control-like functionalities. The effects of the application of IRSA in three scenarios (approaching a traffic jam, approaching a reduced speed limit zone and leaving the head of a queue) are presented. Positive effects on throughput, safety and the environment were achieved. In addition, the paper discusses general aspects of modeling vehicle and driver behavior for co-operative systems, and how this is done in the ITS modeller.