Calibrating and Validation Microscopic Traffic Simulation Models VISSIM for Enhanced Highway Capacity Planning

Abstract

This research aims to calibrate and validate the VISSIM simulation model tool by comparing field data with simulation data. The ultimate goal is to evaluate traffic performance by comparing simulation results with direct observations in the field. This study uses modeling to determine a road segment's maximum flow volume. This study was conducted in Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia, on Jalan Veteran Selatan. The method uses two main inputs: urban road primary capacity data from the Indonesian Highway Capacity Manual (IHCM 1997) and roadside activity data from PTV VISSIM. The GEH and MAPE have commonly used metrics for measuring the accuracy of simulation models and calibration measurements using driving behavior parameters. The research results obtained for validation measurements have met the requirements. Namely, the obtained MEPE value (7.38%) is 10% smaller than the obtained GEH value (2.032 and 3.961), which is still more than 5.00. The calibration measurements obtained the suitability of the vehicle location and intervehicle spacing in the simulation model (VISSIM) with the actual field conditions. The results obtained from using VISSIM can be reliable and helpful in designing and optimizing urban transportation systems in the future. It is essential to remember that traffic simulation with VISSIM is only a transportation decision-making and planning tool and must be combined with field observations and accurate data for adequate and efficient transportation solutions.