Build your own traffic jam

Those interested in matters of transport and urban planning will find this Java-based traffic simulator entertaining. The model – produced by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technoloy can simulate ring roads, highway onramps, the effect of lane closures, and other things.

It definitely demonstrates the existence of tipping points in complex dynamic systems like traffic. Often, you find that a very subtle change has a huge macro-level effect. While the simulation surely isn’t perfect, it does suggest that more capable versions could be excellent planning tools.

The Swiss group has other models, as well.

Author: Milan

In the spring of 2005, I graduated from the University of British Columbia with a degree in International Relations and a general focus in the area of environmental politics. In the fall of 2005, I began reading for an M.Phil in IR at Wadham College, Oxford. Outside school, I am very interested in photography, writing, and the outdoors. I am writing this blog to keep in touch with friends and family around the world, provide a more personal view of graduate student life in Oxford, and pass on some lessons I've learned here. View all posts by Milan