A graphics processor for comparative studies using microscopic traffic simulation models

Computer traffic simulation models are valuable tools for the design and deployment of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). Simulations of traffic flow can be used for the analysis and assessment of potential ITS technologies. Using simulations, alternative systems can be tested under identical conditions so the effects of oversaturated conditions, spillback, queuing, and overlapping bottlenecks can be measured. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) microscopic traffic simulation models, NETSIM, FRESIM, and CORSIM, are regarded as highly comprehensive but somewhat difficult to use. A graphics processor, TRAFVU, has recently been developed for analyzing the output of these microscopic models. TRAFVU was designed to support direct comparison of alternatives to facilitate design and evaluation. Applications of the CORSIM traffic simulation model and the TRAFVU graphics processor to interchange design and developing incident management strategies are presented.