RE-ENGINEERING OF TRAFFIC MARKERS TO FIT DRIVING SPACE

This research represents the interface of human and environmental factors in the design of traffic markers. In this type of interface, research deals with types of sign surface distortion and transformations that affect decisions at intersections. Laboratory studies show the curved marker to be superior to the flat marker, particularly at small acute angles of orientation. Further, the curved marker is more obvious to the driver when angle of orientation increases to 90 degrees. Relevant factors in slant perception of markers proved to be their form and angle of orientation, and, where shape is judged, coloration and lettering prove relevant. The referential dimension, then, can be improved by the use of curved markers rather than flat. Trial adoption of curved markers now seems appropriate as they have consistently proved their value both in the lab and highway over the conventional flat markers now in use, and there are ample numbers of intersections where the conventional flat marker is at a clear disadvantage. /MW/

• Corporate Authors:

  University of Alberta, Edmonton

  Department of Psychology
  Edmonton, Alberta  Canada 
• Authors:
  • Nelson, T M
  • Ladan, C J
• Publication Date: 0

Media Info

• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 21 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Curvature; Design; Drivers; Environment; Human factors; Information organization; Road markings; Traffic signs; Vision
• Uncontrolled Terms: Environmental data
• Old TRIS Terms: Curved profiles; Driver vision; Traffic marking; Traffic sign design
• Subject Areas: Data and Information Technology; Design; Highways; Operations and Traffic Management; Safety and Human Factors;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00127171
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Safety Council Safety Research Info Serv
• Report/Paper Numbers: MLA-72-15-5
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jan 14 2003 12:00AM