Masters Theses

Abstract

"This research project examined the effects of sequential Portable Changeable Message Signs (PCMS) on driver behavior in work zones. PCMS are temporary traffic control (TTC) devices, part of Intelligent Transportation Systems, which supplement static signs to provide advance warning and real-time information to drivers. Text and number based messages are displayed on the PCMS for which detailed evaluation has not been carried out before. This research fills this gap using a driving simulator (DS) supplemented by objective and subjective surveys. A work zone on I-44 in rural Missouri was replicated in the DS using video recordings and GIS (Geographical Information System) data. The DS experiment consisted of five scenarios (0-4). The control scenario (scenario-0) was compared to scenarios 1-4. In the DS, evaluation of the four message signs displayed on the PCMS used by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) and their effects on drivers' speed was carried out. The results from the experiment showed significant decrease in speed of driver as a result of the type of messages displayed by the PCMS. From the objective analysis results, message sign-4 (MS-4) saw the maximum decrease in the speeds of drivers when compared to the control scenario. The subjective (survey) results showed that MS-2 was the most preferred message as it displayed a specific speed limit for the participants to follow. Also, the 85th percentile speeds before the construction zone closely matched with the displayed speed for MS-2. The results obtained from the subjective survey reinforced the fact that PCMS were effective in reducing the speed of the drivers"--Abstract, page iii.

Advisor(s)

Leu, M. C. (Ming-Chuan)
Bham, Ghulam

Committee Member(s)

Samaranayake, V. A.

Department(s)

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Degree Name

M.S. in Mechanical Engineering

Publisher

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Publication Date

2014

Pagination

viii, 92 pages

Note about bibliography

Includes bibliographical references (pages 88-91).

Rights

© 2014 Bharath Kolar Venkat, All rights reserved.

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

File Type

text

Language

English

Subject Headings

Automobile driving simulators
Traffic signs and signals
Automobile drivers -- Psychology
Road work zones -- Safety measures

Thesis Number

T 10934

Print OCLC #

960196371

Electronic OCLC #

960196384

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