Using intelligent agents for pro-active, real-time urban intersection control

The usability and effectiveness of traffic control systems greatly depends on its ability of reacting upon traffic patterns and permutations. In this research we investigate the applicability of autonomous intelligent agents in Urban Traffic Control (UTC), and why these artificial intelligent strategies are useful in UTC. We propose a system that autonomously can adapt itself, based upon internal rules and its environment, at changing environments. Both long term changes as well as short term changes are accounted for in different manner. The UTC model is primarily based on several Intelligent Traffic Signalling Agents (ITSA) and some authority agents. This approach enables us to use a UTC system, based on agent technology, capable of responding to traffic conditions in real-time. The system can maintain its integrity and stability within the overall transportation system. Due to its pro-active behaviour we are able to make better use of the capacity of intersections. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.