The objective of this research effort is to apply earlier promising eco-traffic signal system research results that were demonstrated in simulation environments to develop a prototype for an eco-traffic signal system and to showcase how such a system can be implemented in the field using the current traffic control technology. As part of the eco-traffic signal system prototype,a secure and survivable data exchange architecture will be developed and tested to facilitate successful system implementation in the field. In addition,simulation analysis will be extended to study the effect of traffic network configuration and structure and traffic demand profiles on the eco-traffic signal system performance and benefits.

The eco-traffic signal system developed as part of this project is capable of receiving connected-vehicle data (vehicle location, speed, type)using 5.9 GHz dedicated short range communication (DSRC). It also communicates with the traffic controller on a real-time basis using NTCIP communication protocol. The eco-traffic signal system developed in this project has several innovations. First, the system operates and achieves its potential using current traffic controller and controller cabinet technologies. Second, the system is compatible with applications within the FHWA’s connected-vehicle initiative. Third, minimal hardware, in addition to traffic controllers, is required for full system implementation. Fourth, computer driven algorithms are used to implement traffic signal control decisions using connected-vehicle data. Furthermore, the proposed system architecture employs two revolutionary software design approaches: design for survivability and software performance measurement at the task level. The research should result in a highly practical set of guidelines to improve signal timing procedures and arterial operations to reduce fuel consumption and vehicular emissions. The project supports TranLIVE’s Goal 1: Integrate real-time data systems and advanced transportation applications to better manage congestion while minimizing environmental impacts; and Strategy 1.3: Develop infrastructure control strategies for eco-traffic signal system applications.

Implementation of Research Outcomes

The proposed research approach will involve developing a prototype for an eco-traffic signal system and conducting field testing of the system at the Saxton Transportation Operations Laboratory (STOL) at the Turner Fairbanks Highway Research Center (TFHRC). The components of the proposed system are shown in Figure 1. Potential enhancements could also include integrating the work done in eco-cruise control of vehicles in the vicinity of signalized intersections to develop a bi-level optimization control system. At the upper level the traffic signal controller will use the information gathered from the vehicles to optimize the signal timings, while at the lower level, the vehicle can optimize its trajectory to minimize its fuel consumption level considering the signal timings set by the upper-level controller. The work scope for the project will also involve conducting simulation studies to identify network configuration and traffic flow profile parameters that impact the potential benefits of such a system. The project tasks will be jointly executed by the University of Idaho and Virginia tech researchers. Virginia Tech will be involved in testing the algorithms developed at the University of Idaho in the INTEGRATION traffic simulation test bed, developing any in-vehicle and vehicle communication hardware and conducting field tests at the Turner Fairbanks Highway Research Center (TFHRC).

Proposed architecture for eco-traffic signal system field implementation prototype.

Proposed architecture for eco-traffic signal system field implementation prototype

The outcomes of the proposed research will be:

An eco-traffic signal system prototype within the context of a connected vehicle framework.
A validation of the secure and survivable communication architecture required for the successful implementation of such a system.

Impacts and Benefits of the Project

Developed connected-vehicle lab integrating DSRC receivers and road side units.
Validated the data exchange mechanics between the DSRC units, road side units, a microprocessor interface, and the traffic controller.
A laboratory prototype for connected vehicle traffic signal system application .

Education:

One M.Sc.computer science student and one civil engineering Ph.D. student working on the project.

Research:

A connected vehicle traffic signal system lab in which data are exchanged between the vehicle, the road side unit, and the traffic controller that will facilitate field deployment.