Specifying Solar Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons: Key Factors for Reliable Performance

摘要

Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) are becoming an important part of the toolkit and a top choice for transportation professionals looking to improve vehicle yield rates, pedestrian service levels, and multi-modal transportation access at uncontrolled, marked crossings. As demand for solar RRFBs continues to grow, it is important to consider the key factors that ensure reliable performance when specifying systems for projects and bids. Solar powered RRFBs offer a cost-effective, easy-to-install solution and provide a number of benefits to AC powered units. However, specifications sometimes focus on certain materials and size, instead of specifying how many pedestrian actuations the system must support each day (referred to as "operating capacity"). When specifying Solar Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons, an emphasis needs to be placed on operating capacity instead of prescribing solar panel wattage and battery size. Additionally, site-specific shading needs to be considered.