Adaptive Traffic Management System Using AI Signal Timing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current adaptive traffic management systems are limited by pre-defined objective functions that cannot be altered by traffic managers to address specific problems or situations, leading to low adoption rates and inefficient signal timing optimization.

Innovation Solution

An adaptive traffic management system that uses sensors, multiple data sources, and artificial intelligence to generate signal timing plans based on user-defined weights and modes of operation, allowing for real-time adjustments and route guidance to optimize traffic flow and reduce driver stress.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If pre-defined objective functions are used in adaptive traffic management systems, then the system can automatically optimize signal timing, but the traffic manager cannot alter objectives to address specific problems or situations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic signal timing optimizationVSAvoidability to alter objectives for specific problems

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system allows dynamic adjustment of objective function weights and parameters based on real-time traffic conditions, special events, and manager-defined priorities. The objective function transitions from being fixed to being adaptable, enabling the system to reconfigure its optimization criteria dynamically while maintaining automated operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables modification of objective function parameters (weights, thresholds, and optimization criteria) through user-friendly interfaces. Managers can adjust parameters such as delay penalties, throughput targets, and equity factors to match specific local conditions without rewriting the core system architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Stability of the object's composition

If pre-defined objective functions are used, then the system operates with fixed optimization criteria, but it does not meet the expectations of the general public and traffic managers

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefixed optimization criteriaVSAvoidmeeting user expectations and needs

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates self-service features where the traffic manager can easily configure objective functions through intuitive interfaces without requiring programming expertise. The system provides default configurations that automatically satisfy common objectives while allowing custom modifications when needed, making the system both stable and user-friendly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The objective function framework is designed to handle multiple types of traffic management goals simultaneously (throughput optimization, equity, safety, environmental considerations) through a unified platform. This multi-functional capability allows the system to meet diverse user expectations while maintaining a consistent operational foundation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If traffic managers tweak signal timing plans manually, then they can address specific local conditions, but the process is time consuming and does not always solve the problem

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaddressing local traffic conditionsVSAvoidtime required for fine-tuning process

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary automated optimization based on pre-defined objectives and real-time data before manual intervention is needed. This preliminary action establishes a baseline solution that reduces the amount of manual tweaking required, allowing traffic managers to focus only on exceptional local conditions rather than performing comprehensive manual optimization from scratch.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms that automatically adjust signal timing plans based on observed traffic conditions, manager inputs, and performance metrics. This closed-loop feedback reduces the iterative manual tweaking process by automatically incorporating learned patterns and adjustments, thereby reducing time consumption while maintaining adaptability to local conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11749109B2Adaptive traffic management system

Publication Date: 2023.09.05 SHARMA ANUJ

AI summary

An adaptive traffic management system includes a plurality of traffic lights positioned at a plurality of roadway intersections. Associated with each intersection is one or more sensors to detect traffic flow. A control system is connected to the traffic lights and the sensors and based upon data received and predetermined weights for various situations generates a signal timing plan that operates the traffic lights. The control system also may be connected to multiple sources, wearables, and/or in-vehicle sensors that are also used to generate the signal timing plan and operate the traffic lights.