A decentralized optimal regulator problem is studied for a set of interconnected distributed subsystems described by linear symmetric hyperbolic equations of first order. Coupling is provided through boundary conditions. Long tubular reactors divided into sections with zonal or pointwise controls can be examples of such plants. Then subsystems are meant as sections of the reactor. The overall quadratic optimization problem is decomposed into two levels using the infeasible method. Matrix gain coefficients of first level regulators are characterized by Riccati integro-differential equations. Coordination variables can be adjusted at the second level using the gradient technique.

Two-level feedback control for interconnected distributed parameter systems of first order.

In computerized street traffic control systems, there are several advantages to using a distributed computer system rather than a central computer system. The detector data can be processed by microprocessors located at the intersections to yield such parameters as volume, occupancy, speed, platoon width, platoon arrival and departure times. This paper describes the modeling of platoon characteristics based on detector data only. Among the topics considered are platoon width, platoon splitting, and platoon movement at an intersection with 2 way flow and turning lanes.

Platoon modeling for traffic control

Most computerized traffic control systems that are now operational use a central computer to perform virtually all data processing tasks. These systems operate satisfactorily, but it is believed that this system design approach is now stretched to its limit of practical capability. The recent availability of economical microprocessors and their successful application to traffic signal controllers suggests that investigations should be conducted into the formulation of traffic control system concepts that make full use of microprocessor capabilities and thereby identify improved systems for future applications, particularly those that relate to the concept of traffic management systems that is currently in favor. This paper describes a Multilevel Distributed System (MLDS) concept designed to meet future traffic control and traffic management system requirements as currently envisioned.

J. Lord

Papers

A multilevel distributed system concept for computerized traffic control applications