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Macroscopic Dynamics of Multi-Lane Traffic

Vladimir Shvetsov·Dirk Helbing
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Abstract

We present a macroscopic model of mixed multi-lane freeway traffic that can be easily calibrated to empirical traffic data, as is shown for Dutch highway data. The model is derived from a gas-kinetic level of description, including effects of vehicular space requirements and velocity correlations between successive vehicles. We also give a derivation of the lane-changing rates. The resulting dynamic velocity equations contain non-local and anisotropic interaction terms which allow a robust and efficient numerical simulation of multi-lane traffic. As demonstrated by various examples, this facilitates the investigation of synchronization patterns among lanes and effects of on-ramps, off-ramps, lane closures, or accidents.

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Vladimir Shvetsov, Dirk Helbing. 1999-06-29. Macroscopic Dynamics of Multi-Lane Traffic. https://doi.org/10.1103/physreve.59.6328

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