Introduction of Profile-Based Traffic Signal Control in Okayama Prefecture

The Profile-Based Traffic Signal Control is a next-generation distributed signal control system that uses the arrival forecast of incoming vehicles at the entry point of intersections to control traffic signals. The system went through an extensive evaluation process of five years between FY 2006 and FY 2010 under various conditions in the context of a government-sponsored model initiative (1) and the resulting functional enhancements and process improvements were reflected in the official specification document formulated by the National Police Agency in FY 2011. The Okayama Prefectural Police Department introduced the nation’s first profile-based traffic signal control system compliant to the official specifications to eight intersections in Okayama City and verified its effectiveness in alleviation of traffic congestion and reduction in travel time in the controlled area. This paper discusses the result of comparison in the road traffic before and after the deployment of the system.