Predictive traffic management prevents traffic congestion
Traffic modeling and current information on traffic density and speed, the status of TLCs, and active traffic measures make it possible to predict traffic congestion up to thirty minutes ahead. The City of Groningen is combining this type of traffic prediction with triggers in MobiMaestro, creating predictive, proactive traffic management. The result is that traffic congestion can be prevented before it even arises.
Green light times and adjusting DRIP texts
Groningen uses modules in MobiMaestro to control traffic management devices in the city. The VINCE module controls traffic light controllers (TLCs) and sets green light times. The DISPLAY module controls the texts displayed on dynamic route information panels (DRIPs) in the city. The traffic predictions are provided by MVVS (Multimodaal VerkeersVoorspellend Systeem, ‘Multi-modal traffic prediction system’) by Goudappel.
As soon as information received from MVVS shows that travel times along a particular corridor are lengthening and congestion is about to occur, this is a signal (trigger) for MobiMaestro. Green light times and DRIP texts at locations in the vicinity are automatically adapted. These changes cause traffic density to fall and thus prevent congestion from occurring.
Triggers and scenarios
In addition to automatic responses to certain triggers, Groningen also works with so-called scenarios in MobiMaestro. Scenarios have a fixed set of configurations for TLCs, DRIPs, and other connected roadside equipment. Road managers can activate a scenario with one mouse click. Scenarios are particularly suited for recurring situations such as festivals, sports matches, and other events.
