An Evaluation of Advanced Changeable Message Signs

This paper presents an evaluation of the advanced changeable message signs (CMSs) that have the full-matrix, full-color, and full-motion capability to depict words, symbols and images, particularly in the work zone area. The effectiveness of the advanced CMSs in reducing speed and improving safety was evaluated based on the information contained in the existing literature on the evaluation of CMSs in work zone. The compliance of the full-matrix, full-color and full-motion CMSs with the MUTCD standards was evaluated based on comparing the specification of the CMSs that were collected in the study with the relevant standards that were chosen from the MUTCD. The recommendation for the possible technological improvement for the CMSs was derived through reviewing the products of the relevant manufacturers, the display technology trend discussed on Internet, and contact with the relevant manufacturers. The recommendation for the human factor research was developed by reviewing the human factor research on CMSs and displays for ITS applications.