Dynamic Time-Step Max-Pressure Controller Considering Phase-Switching Gaps for Signalized Networks

Paper in proceeding, 2025

This paper presents a novel reformulation of the queue-based Max-Pressure (MP) traffic signal control strategy using a decentralized framework that leverages only local intersection data to dynamically determine optimal phase durations, maximizing traffic throughput. We critically analyze the conventional store-and-forward modeling approach and highlight its limitations in representing phase-switching gaps at intersections. To overcome these issues, we propose an enhanced store-and-forward model coupled with an improved MP control formulation that explicitly accounts for phase-switching losses. Additionally, we introduce a dynamic constraint on phase durations, challenging the traditional assumption that minimal green times are inherently optimal and stable. Simulation results demonstrate that the negative impact of switching gaps escalates with increasing demand, underscoring the necessity of adaptive phase timing. Our refined control strategy contributes to a more robust, realistic, and efficient traffic signal management, enhancing overall network performance.