Calibration of FRESIM for Singapore expressway using genetic algorithm

Abstract

FRESIM is a microscopic time-stepping simulation model for freeway corridor traffic operations. To enable FRESIM to realistically simulate expressway traffic flow in Singapore, parameters that govern the movement of vehicles needed to be recalibrated for local traffic conditions. This paper presents the application of a genetic algorithm as an optimization method for finding a suitable combination of FRESIM parameter values. The calibration is based on field data collected on weekdays over a 5.8 km segment of the Ayer Rajar Expressway. Independent calibrations have been made for evening peak and midday off-peak traffic. The results show that the genetic algorithm is able to search for two sets of parameter values that enable FRESIM to produce 30-s loop-detector volume and speed (averaged across all lanes) closely matching the field data under two different traffic conditions. The two sets of parameter values are found to produce a consistently good match for data collected in different days.