Research Article

A hybrid approach to urban traffic flow optimization: Integration of Karnaugh Maps and reinforcement learning

Volume: 32 Number: 4 July 13, 2026
EN TR

A hybrid approach to urban traffic flow optimization: Integration of Karnaugh Maps and reinforcement learning

Abstract

This study presents a hybrid approach combining Karnaugh Maps (K-maps) and Reinforcement Learning (RL) to optimize traffic signal control in urban environments. K-maps are traditionally used for simplifying Boolean expressions in digital logic, and here they are leveraged to enhance decision-making efficiency in RL-based traffic systems. The proposed method aims to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and lower fuel consumption. Microsimulation experiments were conducted using software calibrated with historical traffic data from a mid-sized city. Sensor inputs-such as vehicle count, traffic density, and signal phase durations-were validated against real-world data provided by local traffic authorities. Results demonstrate that the hybrid K-map and RL system outperforms conventional methods in adaptability and performance. However, limitations remain due to the exclusion of unpredictable driver behavior and weather conditions, which may affect real-world applicability.

Keywords

References

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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Software Engineering (Other)

Journal Section

Research Article

Authors

Early Pub Date

December 5, 2025

Publication Date

July 13, 2026

Submission Date

May 12, 2025

Acceptance Date

November 18, 2025

Published in Issue

Year 2026 Volume: 32 Number: 4

APA
Kuş, B. A. (2026). A hybrid approach to urban traffic flow optimization: Integration of Karnaugh Maps and reinforcement learning. Pamukkale Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi, 32(4), 776-782. https://doi.org/10.65206/pajes.38028
AMA
1.Kuş BA. A hybrid approach to urban traffic flow optimization: Integration of Karnaugh Maps and reinforcement learning. Pamukkale Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi. 2026;32(4):776-782. doi:10.65206/pajes.38028
Chicago
Kuş, Bayram Arda. 2026. “A Hybrid Approach to Urban Traffic Flow Optimization: Integration of Karnaugh Maps and Reinforcement Learning”. Pamukkale Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi 32 (4): 776-82. https://doi.org/10.65206/pajes.38028.
EndNote
Kuş BA (July 1, 2026) A hybrid approach to urban traffic flow optimization: Integration of Karnaugh Maps and reinforcement learning. Pamukkale Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi 32 4 776–782.
IEEE
[1]B. A. Kuş, “A hybrid approach to urban traffic flow optimization: Integration of Karnaugh Maps and reinforcement learning”, Pamukkale Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 776–782, July 2026, doi: 10.65206/pajes.38028.
ISNAD
Kuş, Bayram Arda. “A Hybrid Approach to Urban Traffic Flow Optimization: Integration of Karnaugh Maps and Reinforcement Learning”. Pamukkale Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi 32/4 (July 1, 2026): 776-782. https://doi.org/10.65206/pajes.38028.
JAMA
1.Kuş BA. A hybrid approach to urban traffic flow optimization: Integration of Karnaugh Maps and reinforcement learning. Pamukkale Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi. 2026;32:776–782.
MLA
Kuş, Bayram Arda. “A Hybrid Approach to Urban Traffic Flow Optimization: Integration of Karnaugh Maps and Reinforcement Learning”. Pamukkale Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi, vol. 32, no. 4, July 2026, pp. 776-82, doi:10.65206/pajes.38028.
Vancouver
1.Bayram Arda Kuş. A hybrid approach to urban traffic flow optimization: Integration of Karnaugh Maps and reinforcement learning. Pamukkale Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi. 2026 Jul. 1;32(4):776-82. doi:10.65206/pajes.38028