Signal System Design at TRC Lal Chowk
Roundabout Using Webster's Method
Introduction
This document presents the design of a signal system at the roundabout located at TRC Lal
Chowk using Webster's method. The specifications are as follows:
Location: TRC Lal Chowk
Width of approach carriageway: 7 meters
Width of departure carriageway: 7 meters
Diameter of central island: 20 meters
Number of approach lanes: 2
Number of departure lanes: 2
Webster's Method
Webster’s method provides a systematic approach to designing traffic signals, aiming to
minimize delays and queues. The steps and calculations for the signal system design are as
follows:
Cycle Length (C)
Webster's formula for optimum cycle length is:
C₀ = (1.5L + 5) / (1 - Y)
where:
L = Total lost time per cycle (sum of all red times)
Y = Sum of the critical flow ratios for all phases
Critical Flow Ratios (Y)
Calculate the flow ratios for each approach. Assume peak hour traffic data or use standard
values if specific data is unavailable.
Lost Time (L)
Lost time typically includes start-up delays and clearance intervals. For simplicity, assume a
standard lost time of 3 seconds per phase.
Effective Green Time (g)
The effective green time for each phase is:
g = (C₀ - L) × (Yᵢ / Y)
where Yᵢ is the flow ratio for phase i.
Example Calculation (Hypothetical Traffic Volumes)
Assumptions
Peak hour traffic volume: 600 vehicles per hour per lane
Saturation flow rate: 1800 vehicles per hour per lane
Critical Flow Ratio Calculation
Y = (q₁ / S₁) + (q₂ / S₂) = (600 / 1800) + (600 / 1800) = 0.67
where q is the approach flow and S is the saturation flow.
Lost Time
Assume 3 seconds per phase for a 2-phase system:
L = 2 × 3 = 6 seconds
Cycle Length (C)
C₀ = (1.5 × 6 + 5) / (1 - 0.67) = 14 / 0.33 ≈ 42 seconds
Green Time Allocation
Total effective green time:
C₀ - L = 42 - 6 = 36 seconds
Green time for each phase:
g₁ = 36 × (0.33 / 0.67) ≈ 18 seconds
g₂ = 36 × (0.33 / 0.67) ≈ 18 seconds
Measures to Increase Efficiency
1. Improved Signal Timing: Regularly update signal timings based on real-time traffic data
to adapt to changing traffic patterns.
2. Lane Markings and Signage: Clearly marked lanes and appropriate signage can improve
lane discipline and reduce conflicts.
3. Pedestrian Crossings: Designate pedestrian crossings with separate signal phases to
reduce delays and enhance safety.
4. Roundabout Geometry: Ensure the geometry allows smooth traffic flow, with adequate
entry and exit angles to minimize conflict points.
5. Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS): Implement ITS for monitoring traffic
conditions and adjusting signals dynamically.
6. Public Awareness: Conduct campaigns to educate drivers about the proper use of
roundabouts and signal compliance.
Conclusion
By applying Webster's method and incorporating the suggested measures, the efficiency of
the signalized roundabout at TRC Lal Chowk can be significantly improved, leading to
smoother traffic flow and reduced congestion.
