A queueing theory approach to speed-flow-density relationships

A model for speed-flow-density relationships of traffic flow is developed that is completely based on queueing theory. Thus the queueing theory is shown to provide a unified frame both for roads (uninterrupted flow) and intersections (interrupted flow). The parameters of the model are the jam density, the mean desired speed of the drivers and the coefficient of variation of the time for passing a given piece of roadway at the desired speeds. The model is discussed and its properties are investigated. Numerical results obtained from the model are compared with empirical data. (A) For the covering abstract see IRRD 886400.