Algorithms for real-time gathering and analysis of continuous-flow traffic data

In this paper we present a new approach to gathering traffic data over a continuous-flow of traffic rather than at discrete locations, as is the case with existing technologies. Loop detectors and video cameras, among other devices, currently provide the primary means for gathering data, but the data is gathered at discrete locations. Using cellular technology, the speed and location of each vehicle can be gathered in real-time over a continuous flow, which will allow more novel applications, such as incident identification and probabilities of an incident occurring, to be developed. In addition, as vehicles transmit updated speeds to the system, the fastest path of each commuter from his current location to his destination is maintained. We present and analyze algorithms that can achieve these goals in an efficient manner