Van Aerde
The Van Aerde car-following model is a mathematical model used in traffic flow theory to describe the behavior of vehicles following each other on a roadway. It's a single-regime model, meaning it uses a single equation to represent all driving conditions, from free-flow to congested traffic. This contrasts with multi-regime models that switch between different equations depending on the prevailing traffic conditions.
The model is based on the concept that drivers maintain a desired spacing from the vehicle in front, reacting to changes in speed and distance. It aims to capture the relationship between speed, spacing, and acceleration/deceleration of a following vehicle relative to a leading vehicle.
Key parameters within the Van Aerde model include:
- Free-flow speed (vf): The maximum speed a vehicle can travel when there are no other vehicles impeding its progress.
- Jam density (kj): The maximum density of vehicles on the road when they are bumper-to-bumper and at a standstill.
- Desired time headway (τ): The preferred time gap between vehicles.
- Minimum spacing (s0): The minimum distance a driver is willing to maintain from the vehicle in front.
The Van Aerde model is frequently used in microscopic traffic simulation models to simulate the movement of individual vehicles and predict traffic flow behavior. It offers a relatively simple yet effective way to represent car-following dynamics and is useful in assessing the impact of various traffic management strategies and infrastructure improvements. The model's ability to transition smoothly between different traffic states makes it a valuable tool for traffic engineers and transportation planners. While simpler than some of the more complex car-following models, its computational efficiency makes it attractive for large-scale simulations.