Explanation of Observed Features of Self-Organization in Traffic Flow

Abstract

Based on simulations with the ``intelligent driver model'', a microscopic traffic model, we explain the recently discovered transition from free over ``synchronized'' traffic to stop-and-go patterns [B. S. Kerner, Phys. Rev. Lett. 81, 3797 (1998)]. We obtain a nearly quantitative agreement with empirical findings such as the ``pinch effect'', the flow-density diagram, the emergence of stop-and-go waves from nonhomogeneous congested traffic, and the dimensions of their wavelength.

arXiv commentSubmitted on January 18, 1999. For related work see http://www.theo2.physik.uni-stuttgart.de/helbing.html and http://www.theo2.physik.uni-stuttgart.de/treiber.html

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