Chaos analysis and delayed-feedback control in a discrete dynamic coupled map traffic model

• We model a modified discrete dynamic coupled map traffic flow model.
• We identify chaos in traffic flow based on the discrete dynamic coupled map model.
• We analyze its stability and provide a procedure to design the controllers.

The presence of chaos in traffic flow is studied using a modified discrete dynamic coupled map model which is derived from both the flow–density–speed fundamental diagram and Del Castillo’s speed–density model. The modified model employs occupancy as its new variable and introduces a coupling strength with the consideration of effect of the front adjacent vehicle. And we analyze its stability of the control system and provide a procedure to design the decentralized delayed-feedback controllers for the traffic control system. These theoretical results are illustrated by numerical simulations.