REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICATION OF LIGHT EMITTING DIODES (LEDS) TO TRAFFIC CONTROL SIGNALS

The incandescent lamps which are presently used for traffic signals are inefficient compared to other light sources. Maintenance costs are high for these lamps and the light output degrades as the lamp ages. These problems, plus the ever increasing cost of energy, justify considering other light sources. One alternative is light emitting diodes (LEDs). Before existing incandescent lamps are replaced by LEDs, it is necessary to show that LED signals will meet applicable standards for color and intensity, not adversely affect the safety of operations of the roadway, and be economically advantageous. NCHRP Project 5-12 was initiated in response to this need. The objective of the research was to determine the feasibility and implementation potential of LEDs. The project found that red and Portland orange (pedestrian) LED signals are currently feasible.

• Corporate Authors:

  Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE)

  Washington, DC  United States 
• Authors:
  • Lewin, I
• Conference:
  • Technology Tools for Transportation Professionals - Moving into the 21st Century. Resource Papers for the 1995 International Conference.
  • Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
  • Date: 1995-4-9 to 1995-4-12
• Publication Date: 1995

Language

• English

Media Info

• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: p. 149-156

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Color; Economic analysis; Feasibility analysis; Implementation; Light emitting diodes; Operations; Safety; Standards; Traffic control; Traffic signals
• Uncontrolled Terms: Intensity
• Subject Areas: Administration and Management; Economics; Highways; Operations and Traffic Management; Research; Safety and Human Factors; I73: Traffic Control;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00725979
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Sep 16 1996 12:00AM