THE GLIDE SYSTEM - SINGAPORE URBAN TRAFFIC CONTROL-SYSTEM

A computerized urban traffic control system, based on fixed time plans, was first implemented in Singapore in 1981. This was replaced with a dynamic computerized urban traffic control system in 1988 and this system is called the GLIDE system locally. This dynamic system has three main functions. These are the allocation of optimum green-time to each of the approaches at a junction according to the volume of traffic on each of these approaches, the provision of linking for adjacent traffic signals and the ability to monitor the status of the traffic signals in the system centrally. The system can work in one of three modes of operation. Normally, the system operates in the Masterlink mode which automates the optimum allocation of cycle-times, green-times and offsets of traffic signals. The other two modes, the Flexilink mode and the Local mode, are fall-back options and used in the event of faults in the telecommunications system, computers or local controllers. Benefits arising from the implementation of the GLIDE system include higher journey speeds in the city area and lower overall fuel consumption.