GENERATION AND PROPAGATION OF STOP-START TRAFFIC WAVES. IN VEHICULAR TRAFFIC SCIENCE

Stop-start traffic waves in tunnels are recurrent phenomena that reduce tunnel traffic production. In this work, they are studied by analysis of 2 types of multipoint data. The pattern of their generation is disclosed by contours drawn on a space-time diagram giving average flow, concentration, and speed. Values for drawing such contours are taken from averages made jointly in both time and space using data from 7 detectors within 600 feet. The propagation of stop-start waves is examined using data taken at 5 locations within 6000 feet. Values of wave speeds, wave amplitudes, and concentrations before, after, and during a stop-start wave are reported on. These analyses lead to a general representation of tunnel traffic behavior and explain the occurrence of periodic stop-start waves.