Guidelines on the Use and Operation of Changeable Message SignsThis report is intended to be a primer on the characteristics that affect the design, use and operations of changeable message signs (CMSs), and to provide guidance on the selection of the appropriate type of CMS display. Guidelines on the selection and design of CMS messages are presented in a companion report, Report No. FHWA/TX-92/1232-10 entitled "Guidelines on the Selection and Design of Messages for Changeable Message Signs". This report is an update and consolidation of the following reports: (1) C.L. Dudek and R.D. Huchingson, "Manual on Real-Time Motorist Information Displays", FHWA-IP-86-16, August 1986; (2) C.L. Dudek, "Guidelines on the Use of Changeable Message Signs", FHWA-TS-90-043, May 1991; and (3) C.L. Dudek, "Portable Changeable Message Signs at Work Zones", FHWA/TX-85/07+292-4, July 1984 |
Contents
TYPES AND CHARACTERISTICS | 5 |
Bulb Matrix Incandescent Sign | 13 |
Fiber Optics Matrix with Shutters Sign | 23 |
7 other sections not shown
Common terms and phrases
4.0 seconds ADVANCE GUIDE SIGNS Advisory CMS background Beam Splitter bulb matrix C.L. Dudek cd/m² Changeable Message Signs character heights CHUNK CMS technologies contrast ratio cost daytime Disk Matrix Sign Display Formats Display Messages drivers drum EXIT fiber optic signs Figure freeway Guidelines halogen lamps highway agency illuminated lane LED Cluster LED lamps legend legibility distance Lexan light guides light-emitting CMSs Light-Emitting Diode lighting conditions Location luminance luminous intensity maintenance matrix CMSS Message Display message elements Ministry of Transportation module Motorist Information Displays Ontario Ministry operation pixels problem R.D. Huchingson RAMP RECOMMENDED MINIMUM Reflective Disk Matrix reflective disk signs Report rotating route run-on seconds exposure seconds/sequence sequence sequential sign face sign message sign panel spacing speed static signs target value Texas Transportation Institute traffic types of CMSS United Kingdom units of information value and legibility Variable Message Signs viewing face visibility Word Messages