Bi-Level Control of Weaving Sections in Mixed Traffic Environments with Connected and Automated Vehicles

Core Concepts

Proposing a bi-level control approach for coordinated lane-changings in weaving sections using CAVs.

Abstract

The paper introduces a bi-level control strategy for managing lane changes in weaving sections using connected and automated vehicles (CAVs). The upper level employs deep reinforcement learning to determine control weights, while the lower level uses model predictive control within each CAV. The proposed method outperforms existing benchmarks in a case study inspired by a real weaving section in Basel, Switzerland.

Structure:

• Introduction to Weaving Sections as Highway Bottlenecks
• Benefits of Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs)
• Existing Methods for Lane-Changing Control
• Proposed Bi-Level Control Approach
• Simulation Study and Results

Stats

"The capacity drop phenomenon can reduce discharge flow by 3%-20% after congestion onset."
"Our method consistently outperforms state-of-the-art benchmarks."

Quotes

"Connected and automated vehicles can provide holistic and predictive information about the weaving section."
"Global coordinated control is essential for improving traffic efficiency in weaving sections."

Key Insights Distilled From

Bi-Level Control of Weaving Sections in Mixed Traffic Environments with Connected and Automated Vehicles

by Longhao Yan,... at arxiv.org 03-26-2024

https://arxiv.org/pdf/2403.16225.pdf

Deeper Inquiries

How can the proposed bi-level controller be adapted for different types of highway bottlenecks

The proposed bi-level controller can be adapted for different types of highway bottlenecks by adjusting the control objectives and constraints based on the specific characteristics of each bottleneck. For instance, in a bottleneck with a high volume of merging traffic, the control weights related to lane-changing decisions and merging maneuvers could be prioritized to optimize traffic flow. On the other hand, in a bottleneck with frequent lane closures or construction zones, the control weights associated with maintaining safe distances and reducing speed variations could be emphasized to ensure safety and efficiency. By customizing the control objectives and constraints according to the unique features of each bottleneck, the bi-level controller can effectively address various challenges in different highway scenarios.

What are the potential challenges associated with implementing global coordination methods across weaving sections

Implementing global coordination methods across weaving sections may pose several challenges. One major challenge is ensuring real-time communication between connected vehicles and infrastructure units to exchange information accurately and efficiently. Delays or inaccuracies in data transmission could lead to suboptimal decision-making processes within the coordinated system. Additionally, coordinating vehicles from diverse manufacturers or with varying levels of automation may introduce compatibility issues that hinder seamless integration into a unified control framework. Moreover, addressing privacy concerns related to sharing sensitive vehicle data for coordination purposes requires robust security measures to protect user information while enabling effective communication among vehicles.

How might advancements in V2V communication technology impact the effectiveness of the proposed approach

Advancements in V2V communication technology can significantly impact the effectiveness of the proposed approach by enhancing data exchange capabilities among connected vehicles. Improved V2V communication protocols can enable faster transmission rates, lower latency times, and higher reliability in sharing critical information such as vehicle positions, speeds, and intentions. This enhanced connectivity allows for more precise coordination between vehicles within weaving sections, leading to smoother traffic flow patterns and reduced congestion levels. Furthermore, advancements in V2V technology can support advanced functionalities like cooperative adaptive cruise control (CACC) systems that enable platooning strategies for increased efficiency and safety on highways with mixed traffic environments containing both CAVs and HVs.