Operational Efficiency Evaluation of Intersections with Dynamic Lane Assignment Using Field Data

Jing Zhao,Shengxue He,Jiao Yao,Yin Han

doi:10.1155/2017/2130385

Jing Zhao, Shengxue He + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/2130385

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Abstract

The dynamic lane assignment at signalized intersections is a possible countermeasure to address the traffic demand variability problem. However, the operational efficiency is affected by the unfamiliarity of the drivers. This paper evaluates the operational efficiency of the intersections with dynamic lane assignment using field data collected at five intersections in China. A total of 63488 vehicles were captured, which were divided into four groups according to the lanes they drive on: Group 1, the variable approach lane; group 2, the lane adjacent to the variable lane with the same lane-use; group 3, the lane adjacent to the variable lane with different lane-use of the variable lane; and group 4, the lanes with the same lane-use as the variable lane at other approaches of the intersection. The statistical analysis was conducted to identify the difference of saturation flow rate among the four groups. A saturation flow rate adjustment model was established accordingly. Results indicate that the using of the dynamic lane assignment decreases the saturation flow rate of the variable lane and the adjacent lane with different lane-use 22.86% and 9.80%, respectively. For the variable lane, the reduction of the saturation flow rate comes from three aspects: the unequal distribution of traffic (8.9%), the mandatory lane-changing (10.7%), and the lane blockage (4.9%).

Highlights

In many cities, congestion at intersections continues to worsen as the direct result of ever-increasing traffic demand
Through the operational efficiency evaluation of the intersections with dynamic lane assignment based on the field measurement in five intersections in China, the following conclusions are drawn
The reduction of the saturation flow rate comes from three aspects: the unequal distribution of traffic (8.9%), the mandatory lane-changing (10.7%), and the lane blockage (4.9%)

Summary

Introduction

Congestion at intersections continues to worsen as the direct result of ever-increasing traffic demand. Along the same line as the integrated design method, Wong et al [7,8,9] further developed lane assignment optimization models using the lane-based approach. To respond to the demand variation on time, the procedure runs on a cycle-by-cycle basis This method reduces the number of variables and maintains the optimal results by segmenting the intersection into arm groups. The existing study has primarily focused on developing optimization methods In these theoretical models mentioned above, it is assumed that the operational efficiency of the variable lane, such as the saturation flow rate, is the same as other normal lanes.

Materials

Operational Efficiency Analysis

Findings

Discussion

Conclusion