By applying digital twin technology, Google ResearchPartnering with the Seattle Department of TransportationBy simulating traffic flow in real scenarios, we can solve the traffic evacuation problem at the end of various large-scale events with many people participating.
Traffic conditions at specific times were simulated using the open-source simulation software SUMO (Simulation of Urban Mobility) to recreate the traffic flow around the Seattle Stadium. Google Maps data was used to define road traffic flow, speed limits, and traffic signs to simulate traffic conditions at specific times.
Google also uses anonymous data to record traffic conditions in the area, and then presents more realistic traffic conditions in a simulated environment, thereby analyzing the possible congestion situations on different roads and formulating feasible solutions.
The Seattle Police Department has provided information on the most congested routes that need improvement in specific situations, and Google researchers have analyzed and evaluated the simulation results to propose feasible methods for quickly evacuating traffic. These methods include opening intersections closer to the gate to evacuate traffic flow, and opening elevated lanes and alternative routes to allow vehicles to leave congested areas more quickly.
At the same time, Google also conducted simulations based on different traffic conditions, activity times, and crowd sizes to assess the time required for vehicles to leave congested areas and reach their destinations under different circumstances. Ultimately, the simulation results guided approximately 30% of traffic to evacuate through specific routes, reducing traffic congestion time by an average of 7 minutes. It also helped reduce traffic congestion on roads with lower usage rates.
