Comparison of Dual-Phase and Static Signage
Principal Investigator:
Kathleen Harder, Senior Research Associate, College of Design
Co-Investigator:
- John Bloomfield, Research Associate, College of Design
Project Summary:
This is the third study in a series examining the effectiveness of Changeable Message Signs (CMSs). The goal of the present study is to investigate the type of dual-phase CMSs that might be used on the approach to an airport. The previous studies investigated static CMSs. Using a fully interactive PC-based STISIM driving simulator, this study compares the effectiveness of the dual-phase message with static messages conveying the same information. Participants from three age groups will be assigned to two groups. After driving ten miles on a freeway, one group will encounter a dual-phase CMS, while the other group will encounter two static (i.e., unchanging) signs. The participants will use the information provided by the CMSs to select the correct exit for their airport terminal destination. This research will determine the effectiveness of the dual-phase CMS and static signs in providing airport information for drivers on state highways, and whether or not participants slow down as they approach the test signs; a survey of the participants will question their attitude to the signs. The study will yield information that could lead to an increased level of safety on state and national roads.
Sponsors:
- Minnesota Department of Transportation
Project Details:
- Start date: 02/2009
- Project Status: Active
- Research Area: Transportation Safety and Traffic Flow