A Modified Car‐Following Model with Variable Safety Distance and its Numerical Simulation

Abstract Based on the pioneering study of Bando et al. , a modified car‐following model is proposed to suppress traffic jams. The optimal velocity (OV) function is extended by introducing variable safety distance. Considering the relative velocity, relative optimal velocity, and the difference between safety distance and headway, a comprehensive control scheme is constructed according to the feedback control theory. The stability condition for the improved model is obtained via the linear stability theory. Numerical simulation is carried out to illustrate the advantages of our model with the new control signal, and the results are in good accordance with the theoretical analysis.