VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Microscopic Modelling and Simulation of Traffic Operations
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:25
Abstract
This course introduces microscopic traffic simulation using SUMO. It has two phases: first, students learn to build networks, generate demand, and calibrate models to match real data. Second, they design future scenarios (e.g., infrastructure or demand changes) and implement traffic control using Python and TraCI, presenting solutions to traffic bottlenecks.
Objective
Upon completion of the course, students will be able to: • Explain the theoretical foundations of microscopic traffic models, including car-following, lane-changing, and gap-acceptance dynamics. • Construct a realistic, multimodal road transport network within the SUMO simulation environment. • Model dynamic traffic demand and calibrate simulation parameters to accurately reflect observed, real-world traffic conditions. • Program dynamic traffic control strategies and interface with the simulation programmatically using Python (TraCI). • Evaluate infrastructure modifications and control scenarios by extracting and analyzing quantitative performance indicators, e.g., delay and emissions. • Formulate and present valid engineering proposals based on rigorous simulation methodology and comparative scenario analysis.
Content
The course is divided into two parts across the semester. In the first part of the course, the students will learn microscopic modelling and simulation concepts, including car-following models, lane-changing models, demand generation, and routing logic, etc., with small assignments and the microscopic traffic simulation software SUMO. The assignments facilitate the base scenario development. In the second part, the student will conduct a traffic-engineering project using the base scenario. Alternative scenarios are designed by modifying the network infrastructure, such as road space reallocation, or demand manipulation, such as population growth and modal shift. Interventions using advanced traffic control strategies should then be considered to solve the problem defined. A mid-term proposal will be asked from each group of students. The final deliverables include a presentation and a written technical report.
Resources
Lecture Notes
The lecture notes and additional handouts will be provided before the lectures.
Literature
Additional literature recommendations will be provided at the lectures.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise |
Microscopic Modelling and Simulation of Traffic Operations
Please bring your own laptop to the course.
|
No time listed | 2 h weekly |