Vissim as a Simulation Tool for AnalyzingOver-Saturated Signalized Urban Intersections with Heterogenous Traffic

Simulation of heterogenous traffic is a modern approach to intersection analysis. In this process, the various modes of vehicles are directly input into the analysis without utilizing any conversion factors, thereby reducing the scope for errors significantly. Further, this process is a visual simulation, wherein the analyst can review the output in video format and calibrate the simulation model to replicate field conditions, thereby increasing the accuracy of the simulation significantly. In this study, Vissim software was utilized for heterogenous traffic at urban signalized intersections with over-saturated conditions. Various lane configurations and modes of vehicles were simulated in Vissim. The simulation software was further tested for sensitivity to various factors such as vehicle dimensions and speed of vehicles. It was determined that Vissim has some limitations, which may be overcome through software coding. Further, it was determined that irrespective of such limitations, Vissim is highly suitable for heterogenous traffic analysis.