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The article by Sydney Brownstone, dated November 6, 2013, discusses an innovative solution to highway traffic jams proposed by MIT computer scientist Berthold Horn. Horn has developed an algorithm called “bilateral control” to address traffic congestion.
Traditional traffic flow is often disrupted by drivers’ tendency to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead, which can lead to oscillations and traffic jams. Horn’s bilateral control algorithm suggests that drivers should also consider the distance to the car behind them, aiming to keep a consistent gap both in front and behind. This approach could smooth out traffic flow and reduce congestion by eliminating the oscillations that occur with the current method.
Horn’s idea could potentially be integrated into existing car technologies like rearview cameras and adaptive cruise control. Although successful simulation results indicate that bilateral control could improve traffic efficiency and air quality, widespread adoption depends on convincing drivers to adjust their habits. Horn is exploring testing this system on a closed track in China and faces challenges in overcoming skepticism about the practical benefits of looking behind while driving.