Unlike other software packages, SIDRA offers advanced model extensions to the Highway Capacity Manual.
SIDRA INTERSECTION software complements the Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) as an advanced intersection and network analysis tool. SIDRA and HCM use common fundamental traffic modelling principles and the HCM setup in SIDRA is calibrated using the HCM model parameters.
Unlike other software packages, SIDRA INTERSECTION does not claim to be a simple replication of the HCM procedures. Instead, it offers significant extensions to the capabilities of HCM. The following is a selection of these.
With the release of new HCM Edition 7, SIDRA INTERSECTION continues its compatibility with, and extensions to, the HCM analytical approach to traffic modelling.
Technical Note and Presentation
We have also prepared a Technical Note document and TRB HCQS Committee Meeting presentation which give information about the SIDRA model extensions offered for the US Highway Capacity Manual (HCM), SIDRA research contributions to the HCM, and further information about the SIDRA INTERSECTION software relevant to the HCM.
SIDRA Extensions to HCM
Extensions for Roundabout Analysis
- Advanced models for roundabout corridors and networks that include lane blockage(queue spillback) and midblock lane changes.
- A geometry-sensitive SIDRA Standard (HCM) Roundabout Capacity Model option.
- Metering signal assessment.
- The HCM setup in SIDRA calibrated to match the HCM roundabout capacity model with an extended model option.
- Turbo roundabout.
- Capacity constraint.
- A model for unbalanced flows.
- Upstream signal effects.
- Geometric delay considerations.
- Easy setup of roundabout geometry configuration.
Extensions for Traffic Signal Analysis
- Advanced features include common control group timing.
- Unique Critical Movement Identification method.
- Green Split Priority.
- Use of Target Degrees of Saturation (v/c ratios) for EQUISAT and ACTUATED signal timing methods.
- Optimum signal timings for intersections, interchanges and networks.
- Behaviour-sensitive Right Turn On Red model.
- Analysis for multiple phase sequences.
- Interactive Offsets function.
- Effect of pedestrian actuation on signal timings.
- Lane-based platoon progression with midblock lane changes.
- Extra bunching effects of upstream signal platoons on downstream roundabouts and sign-controlled intersections.
General Model Extensions
- Multi-modal modelling with separate performance output for Buses, Bicycles, Light and Heavy Vehicles, Large Trucks, Trams / Light Rail, Pedestrians, Persons.
- Lane-based modelling for intersections and networks.
- Approach short lane modelling including multiple short lanes and exit short lane with merging and effect on approach lane use. Consistent back-of-queue modelling for all intersection types.
- Performance models include stops (effective stop rate and queue move-up rate), number of cycles to clear, proportion queued, overflow queue and queue at the start of green (or acceptable gap) for all types of intersections and networks.
- Drive cycle method for detailed modelling of delay and travel time components as well as operating cost, fuel consumption and emission estimation.
- Modelling of Two-Way Yield (Give way) Sign Control.