Communications Infrastructure. Systems and Applications in Europe. First International ICST Conference, EuropeComm 2009, London, UK, August 11-13, 2009, Revised Selected Papers

Research Article

Intelligent Control of Urban Road Networks: Algorithms, Systems and Communications

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  • @INPROCEEDINGS{10.1007/978-3-642-11284-3_13,
        author={Mike Smith},
        title={Intelligent Control of Urban Road Networks: Algorithms, Systems and Communications},
        proceedings={Communications Infrastructure. Systems and Applications in Europe. First International ICST Conference, EuropeComm 2009, London, UK, August 11-13, 2009, Revised Selected Papers},
        proceedings_a={EUROPECOMM},
        year={2012},
        month={5},
        keywords={Intelligent Network Control Urban Traffic Control Capacity-maximising Control Stability of Transport Networks Complexity},
        doi={10.1007/978-3-642-11284-3_13}
    }
    
  • Mike Smith
    Year: 2012
    Intelligent Control of Urban Road Networks: Algorithms, Systems and Communications
    EUROPECOMM
    Springer
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-11284-3_13
Mike Smith1,*
  • 1: University of York
*Contact email: mjs7@york.ac.uk

Abstract

This paper considers control in road networks. Using a simple example based on the well-known Braess network [1] the paper shows that reducing delay for traffic, assuming that the traffic distribution is fixed, may increase delay when travellers change their travel choices in light of changes in control settings and hence delays. It is shown that a similar effect occurs within signal controlled networks. In this case the effect appears at first sight to be much stronger: the overall capacity of a network may be substantially reduced by utilising standard responsive signal control algorithms. In seeking to reduce delays for existing flows, these policies do not allow properly for consequent routeing changes by travellers. Control methods for signal-controlled networks that do take proper account of the reactions of users are suggested; these require further research, development, and careful real-life trials.