Analyzing of Two-Lane Traffic Flow Simulation Model using Cellular Automata

As traffic demand on road networks steadily increases every year, the need for alleviation of global congestion arises. Our contribution lies in assisting of traffic engineers and policy makers who are faced with the problem of controlling the traffic flows. In this paper, we explore the usefulness of cellular automata to traffic flow modeling. We extend some of the existing CA models to capture characteristics of traffic flow that have not been possible to model using either conventional analytical models or existing simulation techniques. The well-known NaSch model for one lane, Deterministic CA model is discussed. NaSch model with modified cell size and variable acceleration rate is extended to two-lane cellular automaton model for traffic flow. A set of state rules is applied to provide lane-changing maneuvers. S-t-s rule given in the BJH model which describes the behavior of jammed vehicle is implemented in the present model and effect of variability in traffic flow on lane-changing behavior is studied. Flow rate between the single-lane road and two-lane road is compared under the influence of s-t-s rule and braking rule. Simulation results show the ability of this modeling paradigm to capture the most important features of the traffic flow phenomena.