Using Stochastic Variation of Cyclic Green Distributions to Populate SAE J2735 Message Confidence Values along a Signalized Corridor

Abstract

The communication between connected vehicles and traffic signal controllers is defined in SAE Surface Vehicle Standard J2735. SAE J2735 defines traffic signal status messages and a series of 16 confidence levels for traffic signal transitions. This paper discusses a statistical method for tabulating traffic signal data by phase and time of day and populating the SAE J2735 messages. Graphical representations of the red–green and green–yellow transitions are presented from six intersections along a 4-mile corridor for five different time-of-day timing plans. The case study provided illustrates the importance of characterizing the stochastic variation of traffic signals to identify locations, phases, and time-of-day periods when traffic indications operate with high predictability. Specific cases, such as low vehicle demand and occasional actuation of pedestrian phases are highlighted as situations that may reduce the predictability of traffic signal change intervals. The results from this study also open up discussion among transportation professionals on the importance of consistent tabulation of confidence values for both beginning and end of green signal states. We believe this paper will initiate dialog on how to consistently tabulate important data elements transmitted in SAE J2735 and perhaps refine those definitions. The paper concludes by highlighting the importance of traffic engineers and connected vehicle developers to work together to develop shared visions on traffic signal change characteristics so that the in-vehicle use cases and human–machine interface meet user expectations.

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The contents of this paper reflect the views of the authors, who are responsible for the facts and the accuracy of the data presented here, and do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the sponsoring organizations. These contents do not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation.