Modeling Maximum Throughput of Freeway Merging Area with Partially Connected Automated Traffic

This research proposed an analytical model of mixed flow consisting of Cooperative Adaptive Cruise Control (CACC) equipped vehicles and Human-driven Vehicles (HVs) in freeway merging areas. It quantifies the impact of CACC platoon on maximum throughput during the merge. The model describes the impedance of CACC platoon on lane change maneuvers together with its positive effect on maximum throughput due to shorter headway. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed model, a VISSIM based microscopic simulation evaluation is performed. The results confirm that the accuracy of the proposed model is over 80%. Sensitivity analysis is conducted in terms of various penetration rates of CACC equipped vehicles and v/c ratio levels. The proposed model demonstrates a consistent performance across all penetration rates and v/c ratio levels. The proposed model provides the foundation for future CACC-based traffic management strategies such as platooning strategy and dedicated lane management.