Evaluación de intersección en vías de primer orden de la ciudad de Machala

Abstract

A road intersection is the point where two or more urban roads intersect, allowing their users to exchange paths. Those intersections located in urban areas often experience a high volume of traffic, causing traffic congestion. With the objective of analyzing whether users have an efficient road circulation service, the road capacity and level of service are evaluated through the simulation of the AISUM software. The proposed methodology is based on the analysis of different indicators that allow the evaluation of the intersection under study, such as the geometric design, vehicular traffic and control points or traffic lights. The study is carried out at the intersection of Av. Ferroviaria and road E25 because a large volume of vehicles, specifically heavy ones, circulate at this intersection. The process begins with direct observation that identifies vehicle types, permitted maneuvers, and traffic light synchronization. Subsequently, speeds and geometric design characteristics must be considered. Finally, a vehicle capacity is applied to know the existing traffic flow, the saturation flow and calculate the average delay in each direction of the intersection, a value that is used to define the level of service. A general delay time of 20 seconds per vehicle was obtained, classifying it as a “C” service level. In conclusion, an alternative is proposed to improve the level of service if required