A multi‐objective optimization model for RSU deployment in intelligent expressways based on traffic adaptability

Abstract The intelligent expressway exemplifies a prominent application of intelligent transportation systems. Roadside units (RSUs), strategically deployed alongside roadways, serve as pivotal infrastructure in facilitating interactions within intelligent expressways. A well‐planned RSU deployment strategy is crucial for enhancing service quality, it necessitates balancing performance improvements with significant financial costs due to the limited transmission range and high deployment expenses of RSUs. To tackle these challenges, an adaptive approach for RSU deployment is proposed, which takes into account economic feasibility, service requirements, and dynamic traffic demands. A traffic adaptability‐based RSU deployment (TARD) model, which integrates factors such as deployment cost, the effectiveness of information coverage, road network topology, and traffic flow characteristics have been devised. The TARD aims to minimize deployment expenses while maximizing the benefits of information coverage and alignment with road traffic demands. The Non‐dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA‐II) is employed to solve this optimization model. To validate its efficacy, simulations are conducted on the G2 expressway in Shandong Province, China, demonstrating the superior performance of the TARD compared to three other deployment strategies. Ablation experiments further underscore the critical role of tunnel deployments and comprehensive coverage along long sections in bolstering network connectivity and elevating service quality.