2010-2011 Projects
Abstract
The loss of time and resources due to congestion, especially in urban areas, is significant. Appropriately operated traffic signals help to smooth the flow of traffic, leading to a reduction in commute time and fuel consumption. This study seeks to develop an agent-based traffic management technique with reinforcement learning principles. Agents, working independently within the same network, will learn from their environments to minimize travel time and reduce stoppage. The information produced by this innovative research will be applicable to improvements in mobility and reliability in the region.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1250502
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Abstract
Long queues and heavy congestion are common in busy highway work zones. These congested areas can be dangerous for drivers entering stop-and-go traffic unexpectedly. Alerting drivers to presence in work zones could reduce the frequency and severity, increasing safety and efficiency. In this research project, user-friendly computer programs will be developed to accurately calculate queue propagation and shrinkage. Real-world applications would include the implementation of online systems placed work zones to manage the growth of queues based on the data collected.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1250501
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Abstract
Origin-destination (O-D) patterns are crucial in traffic operations and transportation planning. This research will estimate a network O-D demand pattern using information from partial link counts, obtained by strategically installing detectors/sensors. The strategic placement of sensors allows researchers to make O-D demand estimates about the entire network under a limited budget. This research will help transportation/highway management agencies to develop transportation planning and infrastructure strategies by leveraging limited fiscal resources.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1312523
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Abstract
Disruptions to the movement of goods can have significant long-term and short-term consequences. This collaborative project intends to identify and estimate the impact of such disruptions through the integration of engineering, economics, and policy frameworks. Researchers will critically evaluate data from two case studies in the Midwest: one along the Borman Expressway and another at the Markland Locks and Dam. There is potential to strengthen transportation systems by analyzing the effects of disruptions to the movement of goods across multiple modes.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1251192
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Abstract
This showcase project aims to adequately understand the value of real-time information in real-world contexts for multiple stakeholders. An Indianapolis-based field experiment will allow researchers to study the actions of participants as they respond to real-time traffic information during their morning commute. A secure Web site will be developed for the initial survey of participants, as well as daily recording of trip diaries. Implications of real-time traffic information will be considered in terms of mobility, safety, and efficiency.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1313907/
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Abstract
Efficient and reliable freight transportation is a key contributor to economic development in both the United States and Taiwan. A lack of adequate government funding has motivated both nations to look to the private sector for innovative solutions to the various problems in the existing transportation systems. Researchers have proposed a highway reservation system for freight carriers using a truck-only lane that guarantees a threshold speed by charging a fee. The mutually beneficial system can potentially help to mitigate congestion; improve freight transportation efficiency and safety; and create a new financing source for highway infrastructure.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1312524
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Research Information
Start Date: 10/1/2010
Total Dollars:$56,494.96
Source Organization: Purdue University, West Lafayette
Principal Investigator: Rabi G. Mishalani, The Ohio State University
Co-Principal Investigator: Prem K. Goel, The Ohio State University
Summary of Research
This continuing study aims to clarify the proposed benefits of encouraging increased use of public transportation in an effort to reduce fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Researchers will further their work in developing statistical relationships that can validate the accuracy of existing mechanistic models used to evaluate the effectiveness of transportation policies on energy consumption and the environment. Results from this research will allow policy makers to more reliably use models designed to quantify the environmental benefits of public transportation.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1231791
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Abstract
Rail transportation is consistently viewed as one of the most viable solutions to the transportation system capacity overload that exists in North America, due to its efficiencies in both fuel usage and comparative overall land use. The primary objective of this research project is to identify methods of improving concrete railroad crosstie design and performance through modeling and experimental testing. The conclusions reached from this research will allow investigators to provide design recommendations to the railway industry, increasing safety and longevity of railway infrastructure.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1231786
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Abstract
This project will study the interplay of four modes of transportation: auto, commercial air, on-demand air service (ODAS), and rail, with the purpose of reducing travel times for regional intercity trips. Investigators will update their current multimodal transportation analysis model to include high speed passenger rail, while considering transportation policy and economic variables. Shorter doorstep-to-destination travel times could have significant effects on regional economies, demographics, land use, and quality of life, and lead to shifts in business activity.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1312522
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Abstract
The ultimate objective of this study is to develop techniques that will improve the measurement accuracy of a given detector station both at the time of installation and throughout its working lifetime. Until recently it has been difficult to validate the detector measurements, but the research team has developed a suite of tools that will greatly facilitate such validation. These improved measurements will in turn improve real time traffic control (e.g., ramp metering and traveler information), vehicle classification, and aggregate performance measures from the vehicle detector infrastructure.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1330039
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Research Information
Start Date: 10/1/2010
Total Dollars: $59,361
Source Organization: Purdue University, West Lafayette
Principal Investigator: William G. Buttlar, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Co-Principal Investigator: Glaucio H. Paulino, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Summary of Research
Sustainable pavement infrastructure will lead to decreased maintenance costs and safer, more reliable roadways for travelers. This project will build upon previous research to develop a user-friendly pavement cracking prediction tool to assist in infrastructure renewal planning across multiple modes. Researchers will integrate cracking prediction software with actual infrastructure conditions to generate more realistic and timely data.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1231783
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Abstract
This study will continue to interpret data collected along four freeways in metro Detroit by the Michigan Intelligent Transportation Systems (MITS) Center. Researchers will further their examination of freeway operations to determine how site-specific variables impact accidents and response times. The results will also allow researchers to verify the reliability and accuracy of data collected by traffic detectors for use in future projects.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/2010/P/1231782
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Abstract
Efficient international commerce is critical to the U.S. economy. This project will allow researchers to continue to provide unique and valuable empirical information on activity times of freight trucks at both public and private major North American gateways into Canada. Working with Canadian investigators, NEXTRANS researchers will provide data related to congestion and overall efficiency based on an innovative approach to technology already in use.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1308792
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Abstract
NEXTRANS investigators, various Ohio State University (OSU) entities, and Clever Devices, Incorporated, will continue their work upgrading OSU's Campus Area Bus Service (CABS) with a state-of-the-art "smart bus" system. The implementation of technological upgrades including: sensing, communications, and passenger information systems, has improved the level of service to riders while providing valuable high-resolution data on operating performance and rider characteristics. Through research, education, and outreach, the results of this showcase project will have positive implications for a variety of stakeholders within the NEXTRANS region and beyond.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1308846
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TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1323832
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Abstract
Freeway congestion results in lost time and resources for travelers. To date, the structure of traffic resulting from bottlenecks and congestion has only been studied with point detectors, which are limited in their scope. This project proposes the use of an instrumented probe vehicle, equipped with both positioning sensors and ranging sensors, to collect data along I-71 in Columbus, Ohio. Research findings will lead to more accurate traffic flow models, impacting safety and fuel efficiency in heavily traveled areas.
TRID Database: http://trid.trb.org/view/1231790
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