Integrated Method for Online Calibration of Real-Time Traffic Network Management Systems

Abstract

This paper presents an integrated method for online calibration of realtime traffic network simulation models. The method integrates a time-dependent demand adjustment module and a link-based traffic flow propagation model calibration module. These modules use available realtime traffic observations to minimize inconsistency between the model estimation results and real-world observations. The modules are integrated into a real-time traffic network management system that was developed for the US-75 corridor in Dallas, Texas. Results illustrate that the online calibration method is effective in enhancing the model's consistency in the different operational conditions.