A simulation-based investigation of a dynamic advanced traveler information system

Traffic congestion is a source of significant economic and social costs in urban areas. Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) are a promising means to help alleviate congestion by utilizing advanced sensing, computing, and communication technologies. This paper investigates a basic ITS framework - Advanced Traveler Information System (ATIS) - using wireless vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-roadside communication and assuming an ideal communication environment. Utilizing an off-the-shelf microscopic simulation model this paper explores both a centralized (CA) and decentralized (DCA) ATIS architecture. Results of this study indicate that an ATIS using wireless communication can save travel time given varying combinations of system characteristics: traffic flow, communication radio range, and penetration ratio. Challenges are also noted in relying solely on instrumented vehicle data in an ATIS implementation.