Best Practices in the Use of Hybrid Static-Dynamic Signs.

摘要

Static signs are traditionally used to convey messages to the road users. The need to quickly communicate up-to-date messages to the road users has given rise to the increasing use of dynamic message signs (DMS). An alternative to DMS is hybrid signs, which display both static and dynamic messages on a single sign. A hybrid sign consists of a conventional retroreflective static sign that is embedded with one or more relatively small, dynamic, usually light emitting diode (LED) message panels. Potential advantages of hybrid signs over DMS include better legibility, shorter reading time, smaller size, and lower installation, operation, and maintenance costs. This report first provides a comprehensive state-of-the-practice review of existing hybrid sign applications in both the U.S. and around the world. The review focused on several application areas, including speed control, parking guidance, travel time and travel distance information, dynamic rerouting information, and graphical route information. Further, it also identifies the companies that manufacture and market hybrid signs in the U.S. It was found that only a small number of sign manufactures have hybrid sign products for applications other than variable speed limit signs.