A dynamic traffic signal scheduling system based on improved greedy algorithm

PLoS One. 2024 Mar 15;19(3):e0298417. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298417. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

Urbanization has led to accelerated traffic congestion, posing a significant obstacle to urban development. Traditional traffic signal scheduling methods are often inefficient and cumbersome, resulting in unnecessary waiting times for vehicles and pedestrians, exacerbating the traffic situation. To address this issue, this article proposes a dynamic traffic signal scheduling system based on an improved greedy algorithm. Unlike conventional approaches, we introduce a reward function and a cost model to ensure fair scheduling plans. A constraint function is also established, and the traffic signal scheduling is iterated through the feasible matrix using the greedy algorithm to simplify the decision-making process and enhance solution efficiency. Moreover, an emergency module is integrated to prioritize special emergency vehicles, reducing their response time during emergencies. To validate the effectiveness of our dynamic traffic signal scheduling system, we conducted simulation experiments using the Simulation of Urban Mobility (SUMO) traffic simulation suite and the SUMO traffic control interface Traci. The results indicate that our system significantly improves intersection throughput and adapts well to various traffic conditions, effectively resolving urban traffic congestion while ensuring fair scheduling plans.

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms*
  • Ambulances
  • Computer Simulation
  • Humans
  • Pedestrians*

Grants and funding

This research, conducted under the auspices of the 2023 Anhui Provincial Department of Education Natural Science Research Projects in Colleges and Universities (Award Number: 2023AH050164), has received financial support for the project. The funding has been utilized for various aspects of the research, including data acquisition, equipment procurement, and personnel support.