Highway Traffic Parameters Estimation by Using Cell Dwell Time

This paper investigates the method of collecting real-time traffic information using the cell dwell time (CDT) theory. In this novel technique, mobile phones are used as a tools to collect traffic information. The mobile phone network has extensive probes and can acquire exact information in any condition. Research suggests CDT is associated with traffic condition: high CDT values usually indicate high traffic congestion, low CDT indicates good traffic conditions. This paper illuminates the theory of using CDT to collect traffic information, and presents the traffic parameters estimate model. The vehicle routes between two cells can be confirmed by map matching technique. Based on the relationship of vehicle velocity, density and traffic volume, the traffic volume can be estimated. Using CDT theory, the researchers were able to obtain the average velocity of vehicles on the road. The results showed encouraging performance in traffic condition estimation and traffic parameters estimation.