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Chapter 4: Actuated Traffic Controller Timing Processes
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The purpose of this activity is to improve your understanding of the operation of an actuated traffic
controller system by studying a traffic controller emulator.
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Describe actuated traffic controller timing processes
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Spreadsheet file: A21.xlsm
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Prepare a document that includes a brief summary of what you’ve learned from studying the controller
emulator, including answers to the Critical Thinking Questions
You will use an Excel spreadsheet emulator to learn more about the operation of an actuated traffic
signal controller. The spreadsheet (Figure 86) shows two intersecting one-way streets, a detector for
each street, and the timers that are activated when a detector call has been initiated. The detection type
is pulse, which means that the call is made and is not held after each actuation.
1.
How and when do the phases terminate when no detector calls have been placed?
2. When calls are placed continuously only on the NB approach, how and when does the northbound
phase terminate?
3. When calls are placed continuously on both the northbound and westbound approaches, how and when
does the northbound phase terminate?
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Exploring a Controller Emulator