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EPSRC Reference: GR/L36086/01
Title: INVESTIGATING AND MODELLING THE COMPLEX DYNAMICAL BEHAVIOUR OF CONGESTED ROAD TRAFFIC
Principal Investigator: Addison, Professor P
Other Investigators:
Maher, Professor M
Researcher Co-Investigators:
Project Partners:
Paramics Traffic Simulation Ltd
Department: Engineering and the Built Environment
Organisation: Edinburgh Napier University
Scheme: Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts: 01 July 1997 Ends: 31 December 1998 Value (£): 57,696
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:
Transport Ops & Management
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:
No relevance to Underpinning Sectors
Related Grants:
Panel History:  
Summary on Grant Application Form
As the density of vehicles on our highways increases it is important to improve our understanding and modelling of the dynamical behaviour of congested road traffic, in order to minimise the negative effects associated with it. During previous research the author modified the traditional car-following model, used to model the dynamics of closely spaced road vehicles, so that it would better describe the behaviour of real congested traffic, which is often complex and apparently unpredictable. This project aims to determine the most reaslistic car-following models, and their associated parameter values. There is currently a distinct lack of the real car-following data required to validate the various models. Dr Addison proposed to collect suitable data by using a helicopter to follow various groups of vehicles along the carriageway, and video their behaviour. Paramics Traffic Simulation Ltd has recently developed advanced computer software which simulates and displays the movement of large numbers of vehicles in extensive road networks. The author will use the exceptional capabilities of this software to investigate the car-following models in various simulated traffic situations. Along with the video filming results this will facilitate the development of more realistic car-following models and improve our understanding of congested traffic dynamics.
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Organisation Website: http://www.napier.ac.uk