Traffic Theory and Simulation

Aim

The purpose of the course is to give fundamental theoretic and practical knowledge about traffic theory and traffic simulation models. It provides an overview of problems, models and applications in the area of traffic flow theory, intersection capacity and traffic simulation. The course gives insights about how traffic models can be used for the analysis of traffic systems with the aim of making the system more efficient, safer and more environmentally friendly. It also gives insights on the principles and theories upon which traffic models are based and how the models are utilized in different applications.

After completion of the course the student will be able to:

• Describe the fundamental traffic flow theories and formulate and analyze basic traffic flow relations
• Describe the basic notation, theory, and models for analysis of capacity and level-of-service at intersections and apply it on real world problems
• Describe and design signal setting strategies for isolated intersections
• Describe the basics for traffic simulation and modelling of traffic systems, including concepts for car following and lane changing
• Perform experiments with micro-simulation based traffic simulation tools
• Perform basic calibration and validations of a traffic simulation model
• Analyse input and output data for traffic simulation models

Content

• Traffic flow theory
• Capacity models for intersections
• Traffic signals
• Experiments with intersection capacity computations
• Traffic simulation concepts for car following, lane changing and overtaking
• Analysis of input and output data for a simulation model
• Calibration and validation of traffic simulation models
• Experiments with micro-simulation based traffic simulation tools