Analyses of a continuum traffic flow model for a nonlane-based system

Abstract

We develop a heterogeneous continuum model based upon a car-following model for a nonlane-based system taking lateral separation into account. The criterion for linear stability analysis and traveling wave solution of the homogeneous case is studied. The consideration of the lateral separation not only stabilizes the flow but also shrinks the critical region. For heterogeneous case, the fundamental diagram is examined for two different equilibrium speed-density functions and the effect of lane width is investigated for different compositions of heterogeneous traffic. The theoretical findings agree well with the results of numerical simulation which justifies the applicability of the model to a nonlane-based system.