Modelling of urban traffic networkof signalized intersections

Abstract

This report presents how traffic network of signalized intersection in a chosen urban area called Tema is synchronized. Using a modular approach, two different types of traffic intersection commonly found in an urban area were modelled i.e. a simple intersection and a complex intersection. A direct road, even though not an intersection, was also included in the modelling because it’s commonly found in an urban area plus it connects any two intersections. Each of these scenarios was modelled using a Petri Net modelling tool called GPenSIM. In real life, every traffic network has a control system, in order to emulate this real-world environment; a GUI was developed in JAVA with methods which are called in GPenSIM to enable user’s control each of the traffic models using buttons. The GUI also shows a graphical representation of a traffic light for all three scenarios. Outputs from the simulation are displayed on the GUI through change in colours of the lights. Results show that Petri Net is a simple and easy tool to use in modelling real world environment. It also shows that the traffic network for any given area can be simulated in real-time making it easier and possible to test and analyse any given intersection before a traffic light system is built or already existing traffic light system can be improved upon to optimize traffic control.