Controlled Optimization of Phases at an Intersection

This paper presents a general purpose algorithm for real-time traffic control at an intersection. Our methodology, based on dynamic programming, allows optimization of a variety of performance indices such as delay, stops and queue lengths. Furthermore, optimal phase sequencing is a direct by-product of this new approach. These features make the new methodology a powerful tool for intersection control. We demonstrate the usefulness of the approach by a simulation experiment in which our intersection control algorithm is interfaced with a well established simulation package called TRAF-NETSIM. Our study compares the controlled optimization of phases methodology with fully-actuated as well as semi-actuated control. We show that consistent reductions in delay may be possible by adopting the new algorithm.