A merging control system for the urban freeway

A computer-directed traffic-control system is described which is being designed under the sponsorship of the Bureau of Public Roads. The system is intended to increase the efficiency and safety of the merging maneuver by detecting and tracking gaps in the merging lane of the freeway and by dynamically controlling ramp vehicles into these gaps. This system is also concerned with optimizing throughput in the freeway corridor by distributing traffic demand between the freeway facility and supporting network of arterial streets. The description of this system is supported by a treatment of the parametric relationships governing traffic control on freeway, and reference to the historical development of merging control systems.