ALBERT MESSMER and MARKOS PAPAGEORGIOU

The problem of controlling variable direction signs in complex multiorigin
multidenstination freeway traffic networks can be formulated as a typical
multivariable nonlinear control problem which may be efficiently resolved
via well-known automatic control methods.

Key Words: Freeway traffic networks; route diversion; traffic control; multivariable control systems; linear optimal regulator; optimal control.

Abstract

The paper presents a general state-space modelling approach for multiorigin multidenstination freeway traffic networks including a variety of connecting routes for each origin-destination pair. The problem of controlling variable direction signs at bifurcation locations so as to achieve systen optimal or user optimal traffic conditions is formulated in control engineering terms. A number of well-known control strategies are suggested and their effectiveness is tested by simulation means for a real medium-size freeway network. Future research tasks in this important application area of network traffic modeling and control are outlined.