Multi-agent fuzzy signal control based on real-time simulation

In this paper a traffic signal control system based on real-time simulation, multi-agent control scheme, and fuzzy inference is presented. This system called HUTSIG is closely related to the microscopic traffic simulator HUTSIM, both have been developed by the Helsinki University of Technology. The HUTSIM simulation model is used both for off-line evaluation of the signal control scheme and for on-line modeling of traffic situations during actual control. Indicators are derived from the simulation model as input to the control scheme. In the presented control technique, each signal operates individually as an agent, negotiating with other signals about the control strategy. Here the decision making of the agents is based on fuzzy inference that allows a combination of various aspects like fluency, economy, environment and safety. The fuzzy implementation of the HUTSIG signal control system is developed under the FUSICO-project at Helsinki University of Technology. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.