Methodology for Determining Reliable Traffic Parameters for Current Analysis of Performance of Motorways and Expressways

2019
Malwina Splawinska

In this paper, the results of analyses concerning selected traffic characteristics typical for Polish motorways and expressways are presented. The input data were collected automatically by stations located on various highways. In the first place, with the use of the coefficient of variability, periods with the lowest traffic volume variability in the year and the day were determined. On this basis, the most favourable time scope of random measurements was determined to allow reliable estimation of traffic parameters for road performance analyses. Then, based on model relationships between the characteristics of traffic volume variability over time and constant volume (regression relationships, a model of Artificial Neural Networks), correction factors were developed enabling direct conversion of the obtained measurement results into Design Hourly Volume. In addition, the rules for determining the share of heavy vehicles meeting the conditions at peak hours of the year were developed. The presented approach is in line with the current research trend on a global scale and allows for improving the accuracy of estimating Design Hourly Volume by 20 per cent concerning the method currently recommended in Poland.

Keywords
Design Hourly Volume (DHV), expressway, motorway, proportion of heavy vehicles, traffic data
DOI
10.7250/bjrbe.2019-14.435

Splawinska, M. Methodology for Determining Reliable Traffic Parameters for Current Analysis of Performance of Motorways and Expressways. The Baltic Journal of Road and Bridge Engineering, 2019, Vol.14, No.1, pp.104-123. ISSN 1822-427X. e-ISSN 1822-4288. Available from: doi:10.7250/bjrbe.2019-14.435

Publication language
English (en)