A regional road network traffic noise limit prediction method based on design elements

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Urban Planning
• Acoustics

Background:

• Existing traffic noise models require actual traffic data, limiting their use for planned road networks.
• Predicting noise in nascent infrastructure is crucial for effective urban planning and noise mitigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a regional traffic noise prediction method for planned road networks based on design elements.
• To establish an upper limit for network noise emission.
• To provide a basis for network noise protection strategies.

Main Methods:

• Developed a model predicting noise for basic road sections, intersections (interrupted/continuous), and regional networks.
• Inferred traffic flow speed and volume ranges from design elements, respecting road unit constraints.
• Conducted a four-scene experiment to validate the prediction accuracy.

Main Results:

• The model accurately predicts the upper limit of network noise emission based on design elements.
• The average noise difference between calculated upper limits and measured maximums was 1.53 dBA.
• Interrupted intersections generate higher noise emissions than continuous ones under similar design conditions.

Conclusions:

• The proposed method is suitable for predicting noise limits in planned networks under design constraints.
• The findings offer a theoretical and data-driven foundation for urban noise protection planning.
• The study highlights the importance of intersection design in traffic noise management.