Goals and Objectives:

This research project, which is first of its kind, constitutes the analysis of ramp metering emissions impacts in the United States using a model capable of predicting emissions as a function of vehicle operating mode.

The objectives are as follows:

• Identify the geometric design and ramp timing plan parameters that significantly impact the emissions from the metered system.
• Develop guidelines for optimizing the air quality benefits of metered systems.
• Recommend optimum strategies for installation of ramp metering that balance delay and emissions reductions.

Modus Operandi: 

Vehicle activity data will be collected from the existing onramps and mainline facility, the modal operation (speed/acceleration profiles) of vehicles along the corridor will be analyzed, and the emissions for the metered system will be estimated.

Video equipment, traffic counters, laser rangefinders, and floating cars equipped with engine onboard diagnostic monitors and distance measuring instruments will be employed to collect activity and speed/acceleration profiles on the freeway and metered ramps.

Approximately 6 hours of data will be collected during each field study and 18 studies are planed over a period of three months.

The CORSIM model will be implemented for the baseline scenario and the field data will be used to calibrate the simulation model for predicting volumes, delays, and operating mode fractions. The modeling framework will be modified to predict emissions from the metered system as a function of average speed and operating mode profiles. Validation studies will concurrently collect emissions data from the roadway to ensure that modeled emissions predictions accurately reflect onroad emissions.

A Quick Overview

Remember to check the schedule for any last minute changes!

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Last update on 05/05/99 07:52:50 AM

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