A traffic signal control algorithm for isolated intersections based on adaptive dynamic programming

Urban traffic congestions lead to a great deal of time consumption and exhaust emissions. So alleviating congested situation will have a good impact on both economy and environment. The signal control at isolated intersections is an effective and most important way to reduce the traffic jams and collisions. A lot of control theories including traditional mathematical ways and modern intelligent ways have been exploited. Adaptive Dynamic Programming(ADP) is an effective and easy-going intelligent control method. In this paper an algorithm based on ADP theory is proposed to adjust the signal time plan at isolated intersection. Simulations are taken under a microscopic traffic simulation software, TSIS(Traffic Software Integrated System) 5.1. Several criteria named MOE(Measures of Effectiveness) are collected to compare with the widely used pre-timed and actuated control. Results show that ADP control method have a better adaptability to the various traffic simulating real traffic flows.