A computational analysis of traffic cluster dynamics using a percolation-based approach in urban road networks

Abstract

Understanding the dynamics of traffic clusters is crucial for enhancing urban transportation systems, particularly in managing congestion and free-flow states. This study applies computational percolation theory to analyze the formation and growth of traffic clusters within urban road networks, using high-resolution taxi data from Chengdu, China. Presenting the road network as a time-dependent, weighted, directed graph, we identify distinct behaviors in traffic jam and free-flow clusters through the growth patterns of giant connected components (GCCs). A persistent gap between GCC size curves, especially during rush hours, highlights disparities driven by spatial traffic correlations. These are quantified through long-range weight-weight correlations, offering a novel computational metric for traffic dynamics. Our approach demonstrates the influence of network topology and temporal variations on cluster formation, providing a robust framework for modeling complex traffic systems. The findings have practical implications for traffic management, including dynamic signal optimization, infrastructure prioritization, and strategies to mitigate congestion. By integrating graph theory, percolation analysis, and traffic modeling, this study advances computational methods in urban traffic analysis and offers a foundation for optimizing large-scale transportation systems. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.