Development of Traffic Simulation Models Course Instructors: Mark Hallenbeck, Director, UW TRAC Tony Woody, P.E., CH2M HILL Offered By: UW TRANSPEED xxxxx, 2008

Needs Assessment Goals and Objectives of the Analysis Constraints of the Project Be able to clearly state why you are using traffic simulation for the project

Key Elements of the Simulation Model [Add Information]

Data Requirements Vary widely depending on goals and objectives Generally include traffic volumes, geometry, signal timings, speed, routing information.

Inputs to the Model: Spatial Geometry [Add info]

Inputs to the Model: Speeds, Roadway Characteristics [Add info]

Inputs to the Model: Vehicle Characteristics [Add info]

Inputs to the Model: Volumes and Routing [Add info]

Inputs to the Model: Signal Control Information [Add info]

Inputs to the Model: Advanced Infrastructure HOV Lane Information HOT Lane Information Tolling Routing Decisions Other Vehicles Restrictions (lane, speed)

Inputs to the Model: Transit Applications [Add info]

Steps to Creating A model

Provide guidance for the modeling effort Understanding of project needs are key Base Model should be built with end goals in mind Understanding importance of validation stage Planning of Approach Data Feasibility and Validation MOEs Time and Budget Constraints Model Calibration Begins at Base Model Development Base Model Development 3. Calibration & Validation of Simulation Models

Base Model Development Source: FHWA Simulation Guidelines, Volume 3 Preliminary Work: Project Scope Data Collection 3. Calibration & Validation of Simulation Models

Base Model Development: Study Area Key Component of the Analysis Challenges With Study Area Selection How Much to Include based on Analysis Method? Analyze Freeways & Arterial Separate or Combined? How large do we go for Study Areas in Congested Areas? How to compensate for Boundaries? 3. Calibration & Validation of Simulation Models

Base Model Development Source: FHWA Simulation Guidelines, Volume 3 Initial Modeling Build Network, Input Data Error Checking Pre-Calibrated Model 3. Calibration & Validation of Simulation Models

Base Model Development Source: FHWA Simulation Guidelines, Volume 3 Calibration and Validation Compare Model to Field Adjust Parameters Repeat Process 3. Calibration & Validation of Simulation Models

Base Model Development Source: FHWA Simulation Guidelines, Volume 3 Model Applications Alternatives Analysis Evaluating Output Summary of Key Results 3. Calibration & Validation of Simulation Models