Simulation of Vessel Traffic Flow in Inland Waterway Based on Cellular Automata

As many inland waterways are becoming increasingly busy, it is important and useful to study the vessel traffic flow characteristics to improve inland waterborne transport efficiency and safety by means of traffic simulation. In this study, cellular automata (CA) were adopted to establish a vessel traffic flow model of a variable two-way inland waterway according to inland vessel characteristics, driving behavior, safety requirement, etc. Evolution rules for vessel movement, such as following, overtaking, and accelerating, in the waterway were discussed, where the minimum safe distance between vessels related to their speeds was taken into account. The CA simulation model was validated according to field data regarding the Grand Canal. Based on the simulation, the traffic characteristics of vessel traffic flow are similar to those of vehicles on the road, although these are some differences. The practical simulation model contributes to the understanding of inland waterway traffic flow.