Smart Mobility Operation at Signalized Intersection Level in Microsimulation Environment

Abstract

In the transition toward exclusive operation of connected and automated vehicles (CAVs), many outstanding issues remain regarding methodolo-gies for assessing the performance of CAVs mixed with conventional vehicles (CVs), especially at intersections where their interaction significantly increases. This research proposes a microsimulation-based approach to assess the operational performance of a mixed fleet of CAVs and CVs at signalized intersections. Aimsun Next was used to model CAV driving behavior across increasing market penetration rates (MPR) of CAVs. The model parameters were redefined by comparing simulated capacity data with benchmark capacity functions, which were built based on CAV adjustment factors provided by the Highway Capacity Manual. Simulation results indicate that the throughput of CAV operations depends on their MPR. The microsimulation-based approach provides a methodology for analyzing the assumptions behind the assessment of CAVs’ ability to efficiently operate at signalized intersections.