A comparison of approximate dynamic programming and simple genetic algorithm for traffic control in oversaturated conditions - Case study of a simple symmetric network

Juan C. Medina, Ali Hajbabaie, Rahim F. Benekohal

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

The performance of two algorithms for finding traffic signal timings in a small symmetric network with oversaturated conditions was analyzed. The two algorithms include an approximate dynamic programming approach using a "post-decision" state variable (ADP) and a simple genetic algorithm (GA). Results were found by using microscopic simulation and compared based on typical measures of performance (delay, throughput, number of stops) and also on measures that considered the efficiency of green time utilization and queue occupancy of the links. The symmetric characteristics of the small network allowed a straightforward analysis of the operation of the signals, providing some insights on the quality of the solutions. Results showed that even though the solutions from ADP were very different from those in GA, the network performance for both methods was similar, used green time efficiently preventing queue backups, and served all approaches according to current demands. The potential of ADP using the "post-decision" state variable is currently under further analysis using more challenging conditions, additional constraints, and domain knowledge as part of the algorithm formulation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication2011 14th International IEEE Conference on Intelligent Transportation Systems, ITSC 2011
Pages1815-1820
Number of pages6
DOIs
StatePublished - 2011
Event14th IEEE International Intelligent Transportation Systems Conference, ITSC 2011 - Washington, DC, United States
Duration: Oct 5 2011Oct 7 2011

Publication series

NameIEEE Conference on Intelligent Transportation Systems, Proceedings, ITSC

Other

Other14th IEEE International Intelligent Transportation Systems Conference, ITSC 2011
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityWashington, DC
Period10/5/1110/7/11

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Automotive Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Computer Science Applications

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