Intersection optimization study based on traffic conditions in the physical area of intersections

Abstract

The contemporary prevalence of car ownership has presented urban intersections with burgeoning challenges in terms of motorization and congestion. Traditional signal timing schemes often encounter difficulties in handling the resulting vehicle conflicts within the physical area of the intersection. Accordingly, an intersection traffic signal timing method based on Intersection Physical Zone Traffic Status (IPAT-ATS) is proposed in this study. Different types of intersection anomalies are defined based on the impact of various abnormal vehicle operating states on vehicle flow in each entrance and exit lane. Using a traffic efficiency model, the flow state of intersections under different abnormal states is analyzed to optimally allocate traffic flows, thereby maximizing traffic efficiency under various abnormal states. The proposed method undergoes testing through simulations at the Weidi Road and Youyi Road intersection in Tianjin. Compared with the current signal timing scheme, this method significantly enhances the intersection efficiency for different traffic anomalies.