- #1
harrycoolests
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why is traffic circle only circular and not of any other shape.i mean i have heard answers like it makes traffic flow smooth and stuff but i want to know the actual reason something which involves engineering sense.
Why Traffic Circles are Circular: Engineering Explained
- Thread starter harrycoolests
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In summary, the reason why traffic circles are usually circular is due to practical reasons. Circles are easy to lay out and have the shortest perimeter for a given area. They also allow drivers to easily navigate through the circle without constantly adjusting their speed and steering angle. In places like Harvard Square, Central Square, Kendall Square, and Powderhouse Square, circular traffic circles are used. However, other shapes such as squares and even fractals have been used in other parts of the world. Dupont Circle in Washington, DC is a unique example of a traffic circle with a secondary circular design inside it for more efficient traffic flow.
- #2
FredGarvin
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Probably because circles are easy to lay out and for a given area, a circle has the smallest perimeter.
- #3
Bob S
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If the traffic circle has more than one lane, the circle is the only shape where the driver does not have to constantly adjust speed and steering angle to stay in his/her lane. By the way, around Cambridge, MA USA, what shape traffic "circle" is used in Harvard Square, Central Square, Kendall Square, Powderhouse Square, etc.?
[Edit] I attach a Google Earth view of Powderhouse Square (actually in Medford). It is neither a Square nor a Circle.
[Edit] I attach a Google Earth view of Powderhouse Square (actually in Medford). It is neither a Square nor a Circle.
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- #4
brewnog
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If a traffic circle is a roundabout, it's probably because your American road layout men are lacking in imagination. They're all sorts of shapes over here. There's even one in Hemel Hempstead that you can go round clockwise and anticlockwise.
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mgb_phys
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Or this one in Swindon is almost fractal
- #6
Ben Niehoff
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Dupont Circle in Washington, DC is pretty wild, too. There is an ordinary traffic circle, with a secondary circle inside it that is designed to more efficiently pass through traffic from a major road. I was riding through there two weeks ago, and it was quite confusing, having never seen it before: http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF-8&q=dupont circle&sa=N&tab=wl&um=1
1. Why are traffic circles circular?
Traffic circles are circular because they were designed to allow for a continuous flow of traffic. The circular shape allows for vehicles to enter and exit the intersection at different points without the need for stopping or yielding.
2. What is the purpose of traffic circles?
The purpose of traffic circles is to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and increase safety at intersections. By allowing for a continuous flow of traffic, traffic circles can reduce the number of accidents caused by vehicles colliding at traditional intersections.
3. How are traffic circles different from traditional intersections?
Traffic circles are different from traditional intersections in that they do not have traffic lights or stop signs. Instead, vehicles must yield to traffic already in the circle and follow the direction indicated by the signs and lane markings.
4. Are traffic circles more efficient than traditional intersections?
Yes, traffic circles are generally more efficient than traditional intersections. Studies have shown that traffic circles can reduce congestion, travel time, and fuel consumption compared to traditional intersections. However, their effectiveness may vary depending on traffic volume and design.
5. What factors are considered when designing a traffic circle?
When designing a traffic circle, factors such as traffic volume, speed, and types of vehicles using the intersection are taken into consideration. The size and shape of the circle, as well as the placement of signage and markings, also play a role in its design. Safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists are also important considerations.
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