Development of a prototype expert system for signing low-volume roads is described. The system consists of the following four modules: (a) basic sign training and overview, (b) determining the need for signs, (c) determining the size of guide signs, and (d) sign placement. The system is intended to be used as a training tool for personnel with limited traffic control device design or placement experience. It is also intended to be used as one resource to aid in the selection, procurement, placement, and installation of appropriate road traffic control devices. The system was evaluated by the forest service field units with favorable response. It was also felt that thesystem may be useful to other federal and county agencies. Therefore, the system was submitted and subsequently approved as a coordinated federal lands highways technology improving program (ctip) project. The forest service is currently working with the ctip agencies and national association of county engineers in the system developmenteffort. This paper appears in transportation research record no. 1291, Fifth international conference on low-volume roads, may 19-23, 1991, raleigh, north carolina, volume 1.
Abstract