This discussion develops an approach for using fractal geometry and diffusion limited aggregation to describe highway traffic flow. The formulation is platoon based and is most applicable for describing uninterrupted-flow facilities. The model explains empirical models in terms of fractal dimensions. The concepts of change in length of a platoon and a discrete spacing unit are described for the first time in this paper. Boundary values of various fractal dimensions are calculated for different HCM freeway LOS designations. A state of flow equation established in the model represents both microscopic and macroscopic aspects of a traffic stream. Using the same traffic flow model, recurring and nonrecurring types of congestion were quantified. A congestion evaluation index was developed to address the two types of congestion which can also be used as an performance-measure in monitoring a Congestion Management System (CMS). A few ideas were suggested for quantifying indirect benefits of CMS and furthering the present research trend. / Master of Science
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:VTETD/oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/42984 |
| Date | 10 June 2009 |
| Creators | Kuchi, Mahathi B. |
| Contributors | Civil Engineering, Drew, Donald R., Walker, Richard D., Trani, Antonio A. |
| Publisher | Virginia Tech |
| Source Sets | Virginia Tech Theses and Dissertation |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis, Text |
| Format | iv, 88 leaves, BTD, application/pdf, application/pdf |
| Rights | In Copyright, http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ |
| Relation | OCLC# 32161962, LD5655.V855_1994.K834.pdf |
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