Step-coordination algorithm of traffic control based on multi-agent system

Aiming at the deficiency of conventional traffic control method, this paper proposes a new method based on multi-agent technology for traffic control. Different from many existing methods, this paper distinguishes traffic control on the basis of the agent technology from conventional traffic control method. The composition and structure of a multi-agent system (MAS) is first discussed. Then, the step-coordination strategies of intersection-agent, segment-agent, and area-agent are put forward. The advantages of the algorithm are demonstrated by a simulation study. Hai-Tao Zhang graduated from Henan University of Science and Technology, PRC in 1997. He received the M. Sc. degree from Henan University of Science and Technology in 1997, and the Ph.D. degree from Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, PRC in 2006. He is currently an associate professor at Henan University of Science and Technology. His research interests include intelligent control and computer application technology. Fang Yu graduated from Huzhou Teachers College, PRC in 2006. She is currently a master student in Henan University of Science and Technology, PRC. Her research interests include intelligent control and traffic control. Wen Li graduated from Zhengzhou University, PRC in 2007. He is currently a master student in Zhengzhou University of Science and Technology, PRC. His research interests include intelligent control and materials processing.