Configuration Research of Recessed Pavement Markings Based on Digital Imagery

Recessed pavement markings are consistently utilized to withstand the impact of snowplowing and sanding operations, particularly in regions with cold climates. However, the optimal configuration of recessed pavement markings remains inadequately investigated. The objective of this study is to address this concern by conducting an assessment of the luminance of recessed pavement markings. For considering the visual demands of drivers, a luminance evaluation method based on digital imagery was implemented at first. Recessed pavement markings with various configurations were then prepared, and their luminance was simultaneously measured. The luminance of recessed pavement markings after service simulation was assessed to elucidate the luminance deterioration laws. Finally, the retroreflectivity of recessed pavement markings was evaluated for their comparative analysis and better employment. Based on the luminance deterioration with operation time as an indicator, recessed pavement markings with a thickness exceeding 0.5 mm and flush with the surface exhibited a service life twice as long as conventional pavement markings. The quantitative relationship between critical values of retroreflectivity and luminance was established [retroreflected luminance (RL) of $80\mathrm{mcd}·{\mathrm{m}}^{-2}·{\mathrm{lx}}^{-1}$ corresponds to luminance of $200\mathrm{cd}/{\mathrm{m}}^2$], and the minimum RL of recessed pavement markings should be as low as $90\mathrm{mcd}·{\mathrm{m}}^{-2}{·\mathrm{lx}}^{-1}$ for practical application.