Author

Dr. Nathan H. Gartner
University of Massachusetts Lowell
E-mail: Nathan_Gartner@uml.edu
Phone: (978) 934-2289

Brian Smith
University of Virginia
E-mail: briansmith@virginia.edu

Description

Traffic Signal Systems Fundamentals are associated with one of the more dynamic technologies in traffic control devices. Focused on the various aspects of traffic signal operations, this course takes the student through all phases of the decision process, from the initial investigation for the need for a traffic signal to its installation, operation, and maintenance.

Objectives

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

• Describe the basic operation principles of traffic signal systems.
• Discuss the principal warrants for traffic signals.
• Explain coordination principles, fixed-time, and traffic-responsive operation.
• Illustrate models used to support development of optimal signal timings and performance measures for isolated intersections.

Audience

Public-sector Transportation Professionals including US DOT engineers, planners, project managers, and field staff, FTA Regional staff, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Specialists, and others as appropriate. Transportation professionals from state, regional, and local agencies would also benefit from participation in the course.

Length

Approximately six hours.

Prerequisites

Students should have a basic understanding of traffic flow principles, queuing and advanced traffic management systems.

Course Outline

The course outline is as follows:

1. Section A: Introduction
   1. Overview
   2. Types of Highway Traffic Signals
   3. Purpose of Traffic Control Signals
   4. Basic Types of Traffic Control
      
2. Section B: Determining the Need For Traffic Signal Control
1. Required Studies
2. Warrants for Traffic Signal Installation
   
3. Section C: Operational Requirements
1. Phasing Elements
2. Types of Control
3. Interconnection Consideration
   
4. Section D: Traffic Signal Settings
1. Definition of Delay
2. Saturation Flow
3. Effective Green Time
4. Signalized Intersections: Fluid Traffic Model
5. Fluid Model for Pretimed Signal
6. Exercise 1
7. Average Delay per Vehicle - Accounting for Cycle Failures
8. Average Delay per Vehicle - Accounting for Cycle Failures: Example
9. Green Times Determination
10. Cycle Time
11. Exercise 2
    
5. Module Examination