A signal control scheme optimization method for K-shaped intersections using genetic algorithm

Among all types of irregularly shaped intersections, the K-shaped intersection is commonly constructed in many cities in China, especially in old urban areas because of limited geometric design rules during the early period. However, the current situation shows that K-shaped intersections have poor traffic capacities and often lead to congestion and accidents. To improve traffic operation and safety, a genetic algorithm (GA)-based multi-objective timing optimization model is proposed, and a phase sequence optimization method is presented, which is based on conflict analysis and saturation principles for K-shaped intersection. The results show that the signal control scheme optimized by the proposed model and method in this paper increases the capacity of a K-shaped intersection by 32.19% and reduces the average vehicle delay by 10.59% compared to the traditional Webster model. Thus, applying this proposed solution could optimize traffic operations and improve the safety of K-shaped intersections.