Author

Dr. Chronis Stamatiadis
Dept. of Civil Engineering
University of Massachusetts Lowell

Description

Traffic flow theories aim to describe in a precise way the interactions between the vehicles, their operators and the roadway system. As such, these theories are an indispensable component for all models and tools that are being used in the design and operation of streets and highways. This course examines a number of theoretical approaches to traffic flow using a mathematical approach.

Objectives

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

• Identify the relationship among the basic traffic stream characteristics;
• Select and design a traffic surveillance system for measuring traffic, and calculate from raw field data the traffic stream characteristics;
• Select the appropriate traffic stream model to analyze different traffic conditions;
• Explain in simple terms the mechanics of the driving task of car following;
• Explain the interactions among traffic streams at unsignalized intersections and merge/diverge points;
• Explain how traffic stream models can be used in the ITS environment (i.e. automated highways; advanced traffic management and control, etc.)

Audience

Public-sector Transportation Professionals including US DOT engineers, planners, project managers, and field staff, FTA Regional staff, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Specialists, and others as appropriate. Transportation professionals from state, regional, and local agencies would also benefit from participation in the course.

Length

Approximately eight hours.

Prerequisites

Students should have a working knowledge of probability theory, elementary calculus and basic modeling skills.

Course Outline

Numbers in parentheses refer to pages.

1. Introduction to the Analytical Process (2)
2. Fundamental Traffic Variables (3-24)
1. Flow Rates and Headways
• Quiz 1
2. Speeds
3. Density and Occupancy
   • Quiz 2
4. Interaction: Flow, Speed and Density
3. Traffic Stream Models (25-41)
1. Speed-Flow Models
2. Speed-Density Models
• Quiz 3
3. Field Location and Data Collection
4. Flow-Density Models
5. Three-dimensional Models - Catastrophe Theory
• Quiz 4
4. Car Following Models (42-70)
1. Pipes and Forbes' Model
2. General Motors' Model (Stimulus-Reaction model)
3. Traffic Stability: Local and Asymptotic
4. Non-linear Models
• Quiz 5
5. Steady State Flow: Macroscopic
6. Automated Car Following
5. Quiz Bowl Interactive Game ("Jeopardy" Style) (71)
6. Session Examination (72)