Developing architecture of a traveler information system for dynamic equilibrium in traffic networks

Abstract

Having criticized the current architecture of Advanced Traveler Information Systems (ATISs), this work discusses a new base of requirements to develop a new paradigm for traffic information systems. It mainly integrates three dimensions within a traffic system; drivers’ pattern of behavior and preferences, urban traffic desires, and capabilities of traffic information service providers. Based on the above, functional segments from several related backgrounds are brought together to structure a new architecture, called Interactive Traveler Information System (ITIS). The main interactive feature of this new architecture is a two-way communication track between drivers and the traffic information system provider—in fact, a decision on choosing a road at a particular time for an individual will be made based on the utility of both sides. This new configuration consists of driver-side smartphone application, centric traffic prediction, and decision-maker units, which will shape a new approach of decision-making processes. These all work together to satisfy the designated goal of ITIS that it is preserving the Wardrop equilibrium condition in the traffic network level. Finally, we concentrate on a comparison study, which shows a differentiation between performance of the proposed ITIS and the current ATIS model in a real situation. This has been done with simulations of analogical scenarios. The most noticeable advantage of the proposed architecture is not being limited to a saturation limit, and the positive effect of increasing system penetration in the performance of the newly introduced information system. In conclusion, new research subjects are suggested to be carried out.