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Nikolas Geroliminis,
Anastasios Kouvelas,
Raphaël Lamotte,
and
Dimitrios Tsitsokas
Travelers in large cities experience significant congestion during their everyday trips. Expanding roads and infrastructure is not a long-lasting remedy to urban congestion. This course will focus on understanding traffic congestion and will explore ways to improve mobility through advanced traffic management schemes. As we all experience, congestion is a highly complex process without a single explanation. An interesting question is: “Can we describe these complex interactions with simple and elegant ways? “
Read more
Travelers in large cities experience significant congestion during their everyday trips. Expanding roads and infrastructure is not a long-lasting remedy to urban congestion. This course will focus on understanding traffic congestion and will explore ways to improve mobility through advanced traffic management schemes. As we all experience, congestion is a highly complex process without a single explanation. An interesting question is: “Can we describe these complex interactions with simple and elegant ways? “
Read more
Travelers in large cities experience significant congestion during their everyday trips. Expanding roads and infrastructure is not a long-lasting remedy to urban congestion. This course will focus on understanding traffic congestion and will explore ways to improve mobility through advanced traffic management schemes. As we all experience, congestion is a highly complex process without a single explanation. An interesting question is: “Can we describe these complex interactions with simple and elegant ways? “
The course will introduce the fundamentals of traffic flow theory and will describe different traffic flow models in micro- and macroscopic level. Network-level aggregated modeling and control approaches are introduced based on the concept of the Macroscopic Fundamental Diagram (MFD). Advanced traffic management schemes (such as adaptive traffic signal control, ramp metering, variable speed limits) are discussed. User equilibrium analysis is introduced through applications of route and departure time choices. Relative reading material, exercises and real data sets are provided.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/jsg6id/intro
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Understand key concepts and the physics of the transport phenomena
- Familiarize with major elements of transportation systems
- Use simple and elegant models to identify the causes of congestion
- Propose traffic management strategies to alleviate congestion
- Apply the fundamentals of transportation engineering in real case studies
- Understand key concepts and the physics of the transport phenomena
- Familiarize with major elements of transportation systems
- Use simple and elegant models to identify the causes of congestion
- Propose traffic management strategies to alleviate congestion
- Apply the fundamentals of transportation engineering in real case studies
Syllabus
Week 1: Traffic Flow BasicsIntroduction of basic traffic variables that are necessary to describe congestion (flow, density and speed) and the relations among them under equilibrium, known as fundamental diagram. Description of graphical tools such as time-space diagramsand input-output diagrams.
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Syllabus
Week 1: Traffic Flow BasicsIntroduction of basic traffic variables that are necessary to describe congestion (flow, density and speed) and the relations among them under equilibrium, known as fundamental diagram. Description of graphical tools such as time-space diagramsand input-output diagrams.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Examines traffic congestion which is highly relevant for anyone interested in city planning, urban mobility and optimization
Teaches a wide range of mathematical models and techniques for analyzing and managing traffic flow
Develops an understanding of traffic flow theory and its use in designing effective traffic management strategies
Explores innovative traffic management strategies such as adaptive traffic signal control and ramp metering
Taught by recognized experts in traffic engineering, Nikolas Geroliminis, Anastasios Kouvelas, Raphaël Lamotte and Dimitrios Tsitsokas
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Reviews summary
Foundational traffic flow & its insights
According to learners, this course is a highly useful foundational resource for understanding traffic flow theory and models, as well as intelligent transport systems. Students appreciate its well-structured content, which covers topics from basics to advanced levels. It effectively provides an overview and offers additional resources for deeper study, making it suitable for both practitioners and researchers in the field.
Commends the professors for their evident effort in course creation.
"Thanks for the effort to the professors!"
"I really felt the instructors put in significant effort to make this course valuable."
"The dedication of the professors was evident throughout the well-prepared modules."
Offers valuable external resources for further subject exploration.
"It is helpful that provides the resources to deepen the subject of interest."
"I could easily dive deeper into specific areas thanks to the provided materials."
"The additional resources were highly beneficial for extending my understanding beyond the course scope."
Presents content logically, from basic to advanced topics.
"The course is well structured and provides an overview from basics to more advanced topics."
"I appreciated how the lectures progressively built understanding, starting simple and becoming more complex."
"Its clear organization made grasping the concepts straightforward."
Delivers essential traffic flow theory and ITS fundamentals.
"A very useful course to obtain the fundamentals of traffic flow theory and models..."
"...as well as the intelligent transport systems for practitioners and also for researchers in the field."
"I found the material directly applicable for both practical and research purposes in the field."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Intro to Traffic Flow Modeling and Intelligent Transport Systems with these
activities:
Solve derivative problems on online platforms
Show steps
Solving a variety of derivative problems will provide you with ample practice and strengthen your problem-solving skills.
Show steps
-
Identify online platforms or resources that offer derivative practice problems.
-
Start with simpler problems and gradually increase the difficulty as you gain confidence.
-
Review the solutions to check your answers and identify areas for improvement.
-
For more challenging problems, seek assistance from your instructor or classmates.
Read a textbook on differential calculus
Show steps
Reading a comprehensive textbook can provide a structured and in-depth understanding of differential calculus, including derivatives.
View
Algebra and Trigonometry
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Acquire a textbook on differential calculus, such as 'Calculus: Early Transcendentals' by James Stewart.
-
Read the chapters on derivatives carefully, paying attention to the definitions, rules, and applications.
-
Take notes, highlight important concepts, and solve the practice problems provided in the book.
-
Review the material regularly to reinforce your understanding.
Review derivative rules
Show steps
Review the basic rules of derivatives to strengthen your understanding of the fundamental concepts of calculus.
Browse courses on
Derivatives
Show steps
-
Start by reviewing the definition and notation of derivatives.
-
Move on to the basic differentiation rules, such as the power rule, the product rule, and the chain rule.
-
Practice applying these rules to find the derivatives of simple functions.
-
For a more thorough review, consult your textbook or online resources for additional examples and practice problems.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Compile a collection of derivative resources
Show steps
Having a collection of resources on derivatives can provide easy access to different learning materials and support your understanding.
Show steps
-
Create a folder or notebook to store derivative-related resources.
-
Gather materials from various sources, such as textbooks, online articles, and videos.
-
Organize the resources into categories, such as definitions, rules, examples, and applications.
-
Review the resources regularly and add new materials as you discover them.
Watch video tutorials on chain rule
Show steps
Video tutorials can provide clear and concise explanations of the chain rule, making it easier to understand and apply.
Show steps
-
Search for video tutorials on the chain rule on platforms like YouTube or Khan Academy.
-
Watch the videos attentively, taking notes or pausing to process the information.
-
Practice applying the chain rule to solve problems after each video.
-
If you encounter difficulties, rewatch the videos or consult other resources for clarification.
Form a study group and discuss derivative applications
Show steps
Discussing derivative applications with peers can broaden your perspective and enhance your understanding.
Show steps
-
Reach out to classmates and form a study group of 3-4 people.
-
Choose a specific topic or application of derivatives to focus on.
-
Meet regularly to discuss the topic, share ideas, and work on problems together.
-
Prepare presentations or summaries of your discussions to share with the group.
Create a visual representation of a derivative
Show steps
Creating a visual representation of a derivative can help you visualize the concept and deepen your understanding.
Show steps
-
Choose a function and calculate its derivative.
-
Use a graphing tool or online platform to plot the function and its derivative on the same graph.
-
Analyze the graph and identify how the derivative relates to the original function.
-
Write a caption or explanation to accompany the graph, highlighting your observations.
Seek guidance from a math instructor or tutor
Show steps
Seeking guidance from an expert can provide personalized support and accelerate your progress in understanding derivatives.
Show steps
-
Identify a math instructor or tutor who specializes in calculus.
-
Schedule regular sessions to ask questions, review concepts, and practice solving problems.
-
Actively participate in the sessions and take advantage of your mentor's expertise.
-
Follow your mentor's guidance and practice regularly to improve your skills.
Participate in a derivative-themed math competition
Show steps
Participating in a math competition can challenge and motivate you to strengthen your derivative skills.
Show steps
-
Research and identify math competitions that focus on derivatives.
-
Review the competition rules and syllabus carefully to understand the format and requirements.
-
Practice solving derivative problems and study relevant mathematical concepts.
-
Participate in the competition and strive to perform your best.
Solve derivative problems on online platforms
Show steps
Solving a variety of derivative problems will provide you with ample practice and strengthen your problem-solving skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify online platforms or resources that offer derivative practice problems.
- Start with simpler problems and gradually increase the difficulty as you gain confidence.
- Review the solutions to check your answers and identify areas for improvement.
- For more challenging problems, seek assistance from your instructor or classmates.
Read a textbook on differential calculus
Show steps
Reading a comprehensive textbook can provide a structured and in-depth understanding of differential calculus, including derivatives.
View
Algebra and Trigonometry
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Acquire a textbook on differential calculus, such as 'Calculus: Early Transcendentals' by James Stewart.
- Read the chapters on derivatives carefully, paying attention to the definitions, rules, and applications.
- Take notes, highlight important concepts, and solve the practice problems provided in the book.
- Review the material regularly to reinforce your understanding.
Review derivative rules
Show steps
Review the basic rules of derivatives to strengthen your understanding of the fundamental concepts of calculus.
Browse courses on
Derivatives
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Start by reviewing the definition and notation of derivatives.
- Move on to the basic differentiation rules, such as the power rule, the product rule, and the chain rule.
- Practice applying these rules to find the derivatives of simple functions.
- For a more thorough review, consult your textbook or online resources for additional examples and practice problems.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Compile a collection of derivative resources
Show steps
Having a collection of resources on derivatives can provide easy access to different learning materials and support your understanding.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a folder or notebook to store derivative-related resources.
- Gather materials from various sources, such as textbooks, online articles, and videos.
- Organize the resources into categories, such as definitions, rules, examples, and applications.
- Review the resources regularly and add new materials as you discover them.
Watch video tutorials on chain rule
Show steps
Video tutorials can provide clear and concise explanations of the chain rule, making it easier to understand and apply.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for video tutorials on the chain rule on platforms like YouTube or Khan Academy.
- Watch the videos attentively, taking notes or pausing to process the information.
- Practice applying the chain rule to solve problems after each video.
- If you encounter difficulties, rewatch the videos or consult other resources for clarification.
Form a study group and discuss derivative applications
Show steps
Discussing derivative applications with peers can broaden your perspective and enhance your understanding.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Reach out to classmates and form a study group of 3-4 people.
- Choose a specific topic or application of derivatives to focus on.
- Meet regularly to discuss the topic, share ideas, and work on problems together.
- Prepare presentations or summaries of your discussions to share with the group.
Create a visual representation of a derivative
Show steps
Creating a visual representation of a derivative can help you visualize the concept and deepen your understanding.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a function and calculate its derivative.
- Use a graphing tool or online platform to plot the function and its derivative on the same graph.
- Analyze the graph and identify how the derivative relates to the original function.
- Write a caption or explanation to accompany the graph, highlighting your observations.
Seek guidance from a math instructor or tutor
Show steps
Seeking guidance from an expert can provide personalized support and accelerate your progress in understanding derivatives.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a math instructor or tutor who specializes in calculus.
- Schedule regular sessions to ask questions, review concepts, and practice solving problems.
- Actively participate in the sessions and take advantage of your mentor's expertise.
- Follow your mentor's guidance and practice regularly to improve your skills.
Participate in a derivative-themed math competition
Show steps
Participating in a math competition can challenge and motivate you to strengthen your derivative skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify math competitions that focus on derivatives.
- Review the competition rules and syllabus carefully to understand the format and requirements.
- Practice solving derivative problems and study relevant mathematical concepts.
- Participate in the competition and strive to perform your best.
Career center
Learners who complete Intro to Traffic Flow Modeling and Intelligent Transport Systems will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Transportation Researcher
Transportation Researcher
Transportation Researchers conduct research on transportation systems, including traffic flow, congestion, and intelligent transportation systems. This course may be useful for Transportation Researchers who wish to specialize in traffic engineering or intelligent transportation systems. The course provides the fundamentals of traffic flow theory, including advanced traffic management schemes, and introduces network-level aggregated modeling and control approaches.
Transportation Engineer
Transportation Engineer
Transportation Engineers plan, design, build, and maintain transportation systems. They may specialize in traffic engineering or roadway design. This course may be useful for Transportation Engineers who wish to specialize in traffic engineering. The course provides the fundamentals of traffic flow theory and explores ways to improve mobility through advanced traffic management schemes.
Traffic Engineer
Traffic Engineer
Traffic Engineers design and implement traffic management systems, including those that are part of intelligent transportation systems. This course may be useful for Traffic Engineers who wish to develop a deeper understanding of traffic engineering principles or who want to advance into transportation planning or management. The course provides the fundamentals of traffic flow theory, including advanced traffic management schemes such as variable speed limits and ramp metering.
Intelligent Transportation Systems Engineer
Intelligent Transportation Systems Engineer
Intelligent Transportation Systems Engineers design, implement, and maintain intelligent transportation systems, including traffic management systems, traveler information systems, and automated vehicle systems. This course may be useful for Intelligent Transportation Systems Engineers who wish to develop a deeper understanding of traffic engineering principles or who want to advance into traffic engineering or transportation planning. The course provides the fundamentals of traffic flow theory, including advanced traffic management schemes such as variable speed limits and ramp metering, and introduces network-level aggregated modeling and control approaches.
Transportation Planner
Transportation Planner
Transportation Planners plan and manage transportation systems, including roads, highways, and public transportation. They may specialize in traffic management or transportation policy. This course may be useful for Transportation Planners who wish to specialize in traffic management. The course provides the fundamentals of traffic flow theory and explores ways to improve mobility through advanced traffic management schemes.
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analysts develop and apply analytical techniques to solve problems in various fields, including transportation. They may specialize in traffic management or transportation logistics. This course may be useful for Operations Research Analysts who wish to specialize in traffic management. The course provides the fundamentals of traffic flow theory and explores ways to improve mobility through advanced traffic management schemes.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists develop and apply analytical techniques to solve business problems. They may specialize in transportation data analysis by providing insights into traffic patterns and congestion. This course may be useful for Data Scientists who wish to specialize in transportation data analysis. The course provides the fundamentals of traffic flow theory and introduces network-level aggregated modeling and control approaches.
Transport Economist
Transport Economist
Transport Economists analyze the economic effects of transportation systems, including the impact of congestion and traffic management schemes. This course may be useful for Transport Economists who wish to specialize in traffic economics. The course provides the fundamentals of traffic flow theory, including advanced traffic management schemes, and introduces user equilibrium analysis.
Traffic Signal Technician
Traffic Signal Technician
Traffic Signal Technicians maintain and repair traffic signals, including those that are part of intelligent transportation systems. This course may be useful for Traffic Signal Technicians who wish to develop a deeper understanding of traffic signal operations or who want to advance into traffic engineering. The course provides the fundamentals of traffic flow theory, including advanced traffic management schemes such as variable speed limits and ramp metering.
Traffic Analyst
Traffic Analyst
Traffic Analysts collect and analyze data on traffic patterns, congestion, and the effectiveness of traffic management systems. This course may be useful for Traffic Analysts who wish to develop a deeper understanding of traffic analysis techniques or who want to advance into traffic engineering or transportation planning. The course provides the fundamentals of traffic flow theory, including advanced traffic management schemes such as variable speed limits and ramp metering.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners help plan the development of cities and towns. They may specialize in transportation planning by designing and improving transportation systems. This course may be useful for Urban Planners who wish to specialize in transportation planning. The course provides the fundamentals of traffic flow theory, user equilibrium analysis, and advanced traffic management schemes.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers may specialize in transportation, designing roadway systems and traffic control systems. This course may be useful for Civil Engineers who wish to specialize in transportation engineering. The course provides the fundamentals of traffic flow theory and explores ways to improve mobility through advanced traffic management schemes.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/jsg6id/intro
Reading list
We've selected 12 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Intro to Traffic Flow Modeling and Intelligent Transport Systems.
This classic reference book provides detailed and comprehensive coverage of the fundamental principles underlying traffic flow theory. It would be valuable as additional reading.
This handbook provides a comprehensive reference on traffic engineering practices. It useful resource for engineers and practitioners in the field.
This manual published by the Federal Highway Administration provides standards and guidelines for the design and use of traffic control devices. It valuable resource for engineers and practitioners involved in traffic management.
Published by the Transportation Research Board provides a detailed discussion on roadway capacity. It valuable resource for engineers involved in the planning and design of roadways.
Provides a comprehensive treatment of highway traffic analysis and design techniques. It is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions.
Provides a comprehensive overview of highway engineering principles and practices. It covers various aspects of highway design, construction, and maintenance.
Save
This introductory book provides a broad overview of traffic flow theory and control. It is commonly used as a textbook at academic institutions. However, the book can also be useful as a preparatory reading before taking this course.
Provides a comprehensive overview of transportation economics principles. It covers various aspects of transportation demand, supply, and policy.
Provides a comprehensive overview of transport systems planning techniques. It covers various aspects of transportation modeling, evaluation, and policy analysis.
Provides an introduction to intelligent transport systems (ITS). It valuable resource for readers who want to learn about the latest advancements in ITS.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of traffic psychology. It offers insights into understanding the human factors that contribute to traffic congestion.
Discusses various aspects of transportation systems. It provides an introduction to modeling and analysis techniques used in transportation planning.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/jsg6id/intro
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Effort
5 to 6 hours per week for 7 weeks
Level
Intermediate
Via
edX
Institution
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Instructors
Nikolas Geroliminis
Anastasios Kouvelas
Raphaël Lamotte
Dimitrios Tsitsokas
Language
English
Transcript
English
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