This paper provides guidelines to system implementers and operators of variable message signs (VMS) for avoiding the comprehension problems in the future. The guidelines are based on several studies produced in the TROPIC project (Traffic Optimisation by the Integration of Information and Control). Several aspects dealing with the comprehension of VMS were investigated: (a) interpretation of the message meaning; (b) interpretation of the sign category; (c) interpretation of displays involving different technical features within the equipment (e.g. a flashing display); (d) interpretation of the expected responses (i.e. in which way the driver should modify his/her behaviour?); (e) interpretation of the control strategies and levels of confidence in the reliability of VMS; and (f) acceptance of the VMS system. (A*)
Samenvatting