Automatic Vehicle Trajectory Behavior Classification Based on Unmanned Aerial Vehicle-Derived Trajectories Using Machine Learning Techniques

Abstract

This study introduces an innovative scheme for classifying uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV)-derived vehicle trajectory behaviors by employing machine learning (ML) techniques to transform original trajectories into various sequences: space–time, speed–time, and azimuth–time. These transformed sequences were subjected to normalization for uniform data analysis, facilitating the classification of trajectories into six distinct categories through the application of three ML classifiers: random forest, time series forest (TSF), and canonical time series characteristics. Testing was performed across three different intersections to reveal an accuracy exceeding 90%, underlining the superior performance of integrating azimuth–time and speed–time sequences over conventional space–time sequences for analyzing trajectory behaviors. This research highlights the TSF classifier’s robustness when incorporating speed data, demonstrating its efficiency in feature extraction and reliability in intricate trajectory pattern handling. This study’s results indicate that integrating direction and speed information significantly enhances predictive accuracy and model robustness. This comprehensive approach, which leverages UAV-derived trajectories and advanced ML techniques, represents a significant step forward in understanding vehicle trajectory behaviors, aligning with the goals of enhancing traffic control and management strategies for better urban mobility.