Since March, a stretch of the I-24 freeway near Nashville, Tennessee, has been under the control of an artificial intelligence system, tasked with managing variable speed limits in an effort to improve traffic flow and safety. The system's impact is still under evaluation as researchers continue to analyze the collected data.
Variable speed limits, also known as smart motorways, are increasingly utilized in countries like the US, UK, and Germany to manage traffic congestion and enhance road safety. Traditionally, these systems use rule-based algorithms that monitor traffic volumes and adjust speed limits accordingly. However, the 27-kilometer section of the I-24 faced a common problem: phantom traffic jams. These occur when sudden braking by drivers causes traffic to slow down significantly, often leading to rear-end collisions as faster vehicles approach slower-moving traffic.
To tackle this issue, Daniel Work from Vanderbilt University and his team developed an AI system trained on historical traffic data. This AI continuously monitors traffic via cameras and adjusts speed limits in real-time to mitigate congestion. The AI was introduced in the I-24 control room in February for an initial testing phase, where it ran in parallel with the existing system, providing recommendations to human operators without actually controlling the speed limits. During this period, the AI experienced some initial challenges as it adapted to real-world conditions.
The ultimate goal of this AI implementation is to reduce the incidence of phantom traffic jams and improve overall traffic flow. By dynamically adjusting speed limits based on real-time conditions, the AI aims to create a more responsive and efficient traffic management system. The researchers at Vanderbilt University hope that this approach will lead to fewer traffic jams and accidents, providing a safer and more predictable driving experience for motorists.
As the system continues to be refined and data analysis progresses, the researchers are optimistic that the AI-managed variable speed limits will prove to be a valuable tool in the ongoing effort to improve traffic management on busy highways. If successful, this technology could be expanded to other congested roadways, potentially revolutionizing the way traffic is managed and paving the way for smarter, safer roads.
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