Simulation as a Tool in Traffic Control System Evaluation

Abstract

Simulation is a standard tool of the systems engineer in studying existing systems and in predicting the behavior of projected systems. The applicability of this tool to traffic systems is a relatively recent development. Eight or ten years ago when one spoke of traffic simulation, one was speaking of something to be achieved in the future. ^1–3 Papers dealing with the subject treated various techniques of simulation, and research was concerned primarily with simulation as an end in itself. Within the last two or three years, however, traffic simulation techniques have advanced to such a degree that it is possible to use simulation as a tool in studying specific traffic problems. For instance, Levy and his associates of Midwest Research Institute have developed a simulation model which permits them to study the problems of on and off ramps of freeways. This paper will describe a computer simulation designed for evaluation of a network of traffic signals. This simulation was developed under a contract sponsored by the Department of Highways and Traffic of the District of Columbia and by the U.S. Bureau of Public Roads.