Researchers at the University of Southampton are investigating
the application of artificial intelligence (AI) technology for
controlling traffic lights. The development of artificial
intelligence-based approaches to junction control is one of many
new and promising technologies that can make better use of
existing urban and road capacity, while reducing the
environmental impacts of road traffic. The research carried out
by the University of Southampton team has used computer games
and simulations to investigate what makes good traffic control.
This work has shown that – given the right conditions – humans
are excellent at controlling the traffic and can perform
significantly better than the existing urban traffic control
computers in use today. This was tested for the BBC's 'One Show'
programme, where presenter Marty Jopson controlled a 'real
traffic light junction at the InnovITS proving ground using a
laptop, while 30 volunteer drivers tried to negotiate the
junction. Dr Simon Box of the University of Sout