A study on the optimal signal timing for area traffic control

A genetic algorithm to determine the optimal signal sequence and double cycle pattern is described. The signal sequence and double cycle pattern are used as the input for TRANSYT to find optimal signal timing at each junction in the area traffic networks. In the genetic process, the partially matched crossover and simple crossover operators are used for evolution of signal sequence and double cycle pattern respectively. A special conversion algorithm is devised to convert the signal sequence into the link-stage assignment for TRANSYT. Results from tests using data from an area traffic network in Leicester region are given.