How To Create a Network and Simulation in SUMO

Introduction

This tutorial guides you through creating a network and simulation using SUMO (Simulation of Urban MObility), a powerful tool for traffic simulation. You'll learn how to build a network manually and with the NETGENERATE tool, culminating in a simulation setup. Understanding these processes can help in urban planning, traffic management, and transportation research.

Step 1: Understanding a SUMO Network

• A SUMO network represents the layout of roads and intersections.
• It consists of nodes (intersections) and edges (roads connecting them).
• Familiarize yourself with the basic components:
  • Nodes: Points where roads intersect.
  • Edges: Segments of road that connect nodes.

Step 2: Creating a SUMO Network by Hand

1. Define your area: Choose a small area (like a Manhattan grid) to start.
2. Create a network file:
   • Use an editor to define nodes and edges in XML format.
   • Example structure:

     <net>
       <node id="1" x="0" y="0" />
       <node id="2" x="0" y="100" />
       <edge id="1" from="1" to="2" />
     </net>
     

3. Add more nodes and edges to build the complete network structure.
4. Validate the network: Ensure all nodes and edges are connected correctly.

Step 3: Using NETGENERATE

• NETGENERATE automates network creation based on specified parameters.

1. Install NETGENERATE: Ensure it's included in your SUMO installation.
2. Define parameters:
   • Set the grid size, number of lanes, and speed limits.
3. Run the NETGENERATE command:
   • Example command:

     netgenerate --grid --lanes 2 --length 1000 --width 1000 -o output.net.xml
     

4. Check the generated files: Look for the output file named output.net.xml to review your network.

Step 4: Creating a SUMO Simulation

1. Define vehicle types in a separate configuration file (e.g., vehicle_types.xml):
   • Example:

     <vType id="car" vMax="33.33" accel="2.6" decel="4.5" />
     

2. Set up the simulation configuration in a SUMO configuration file (e.g., sumo.cfg):
   • Include the network and route files:

     <configuration>
       <input>
         <net-file value="output.net.xml"/>
         <route-files value="routes.rou.xml"/>
       </input>
     </configuration>
     

3. Run the simulation using the SUMO GUI or command line:
   • Command example:

     sumo-gui sumo.cfg
     

Conclusion

You now have the tools to create a network and simulation in SUMO. Start by manually creating a simple network, then explore the efficiency of NETGENERATE for larger projects. Finally, set up your simulation to analyze traffic patterns and vehicle behavior. For further exploration, consider experimenting with different network configurations and simulation parameters.