Traffic Control System Using Speed-Volume Correlation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing traffic control systems are inadequate in preventing traffic congestions at locations other than merging points, as they do not effectively manage traffic flow and volume across entire road networks.
Innovation Solution
A traffic control system that sets a target value based on the correlation between vehicle travel speed and traffic volume, using sensors and communication devices to control vehicle speed and inter-vehicle distance, thereby regulating traffic flow and preventing congestion by adjusting vehicle speed and inter-vehicle distance in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traffic control is implemented only at merging points using lighting control devices, then vehicle flow at merging points can be smoothened, but traffic congestions at locations other than merging points cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by transforming the traffic control system from a location-specific merging point controller into a universal system applicable to any road location. The infrastructure device sets common target values that can be applied throughout the road network, and vehicles use their own control systems to maintain these targets regardless of location, making the system versatile for preventing congestion at any point along the road.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling each vehicle to independently control its own travel state based on the common target value received from the infrastructure. Instead of centralized control at merging points, each vehicle autonomously adjusts its speed and inter-vehicle distance to maintain the target traffic volume, allowing the system to adapt to various road locations without additional infrastructure.
2Productivity
If vehicles travel at high speed to improve productivity, then traffic volume capacity increases, but traffic congestion occurs more easily due to reduced reaction time and stability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by continuously monitoring the actual traffic volume and comparing it to the target traffic volume. The infrastructure device calculates appropriate target speeds based on this feedback, and vehicles adjust their speed accordingly. This closed-loop control allows the system to maintain high productivity while ensuring stability, as the feedback mechanism prevents excessive speed increases that would lead to congestion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the target speed parameter based on road conditions, traffic volume, and environmental factors. Rather than maintaining a fixed high speed for productivity, the system changes the speed parameter in real-time to optimize both traffic flow capacity and stability, preventing congestion while maintaining efficient throughput.
3Quantity of substance
If inter-vehicle distance is reduced to increase traffic volume, then road capacity improves, but safety and stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the target inter-vehicle distance flexible rather than fixed. The system dynamically adjusts the target distance based on vehicle speed, acceleration capabilities, and traffic conditions. This allows the system to reduce inter-vehicle distance when conditions permit (increasing traffic volume) while maintaining adequate safety margins when conditions require it (preserving reliability), optimizing both quantity and stability simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
A traffic control system sets a target value related to a travel state based on a correlation between a vehicle travel speed and a traffic volume, and controls multiple vehicles (CS) on a road in accordance with the target value as a common target value. The target value can be set based on a predicted traffic volume at a region (103) that is ahead of, in a vehicle travel direction, the multiple vehicles on the road. For example, the traffic control system sets, as the target value, a target speed or a target value of a parameter related to an inter-vehicle distance.