Highway Traffic Parameters Estimation by Using Cell Dwell Time

Abstract

This paper investigates the method of collecting re al-time traffic information using the cell dwell time (CDT) theory. In this novel technique, mobile phones are used as a tools to collect traffi c information. The mobile phone network has extensive probes and can acquire exact information in any condition. Research suggests CDT is associated with traffic condition: high CDT values usually indicate high traffic congestion, lo w CDT indicates good traffic conditions. This paper illuminates the theory of us ing CDT to collect traffic information, and presents the traffic parameters es timate model. The vehicle routes between two cells can be confirmed by map matching technique. Based on the relationship of vehicle velocity, density an d traffic volume, the traffic volume can be estimated. Using CDT theory, the researchers were able to obtain the average velocity of vehicles on the road. The r esults showed encouraging performance in traffic condition estimation and tra ffic parameters estimation.