Discrete Event Simulation-Based Evaluation of a Single-Lane Synchronized Dual-Traffic Light Intersections

Abstract

This research involved an exploratory evaluation of the dynamics of vehicular traffic on a road network across two traffic light-controlled junctions. The study uses the case study of a one-kilometer road system modelled on Anylogic version 8.8.4. Anylogic is a multi-paradigm simulation tool that supports three main simulation methodologies: discrete event simulation, agent-based modeling, and system dynamics modeling. The system is used to evaluate the implication of stochastic time-based vehicle variables on the general efficiency of road use. Road use efficiency as reflected in this model is based on the percentage of entry vehicles to exit the model within a one-hour simulation period. The study deduced that for the model under review, an increase in entry point time delay has a domineering influence on the efficiency of road use far beyond any other consideration. This study therefore presents a novel approach that leverages Discrete Events Simulation to facilitate efficient road management with a focus on optimum road use efficiency. The study also determined that the inclusion of appropriate random parameters to reflect road use activities at critical event points in a simulation can help in the effective representation of authentic traffic models. The Anylogic simulation software leverages the Classic DEVS and Parallel DEVS formalisms to achieve these objectives.