This paper details the impact and effectiveness of Intelligent Road Studs (IRS) installed on the M8 in Scotland to provide delineation for motorists in poor visibility conditions and to flash as a warning when incidents are occurring downstream. This is similar to the COMPANION hazard warning system installed on the A90 but it is considered that IRS may offer a more cost effective solution. The evaluation therefore sought to ensure technical competence of that the IRS are technically competent and have a similarly positive impact on motorists as the COMPANION system. The results from the evaluation show that the system was available for 96.4% of the trial period, although 3% of the unavailability was due to system maintenance. The evaluation also shows that all the speed activations took place when appropriate and that fog activations show a good correlation with independent meteorological data. Feedback regarding the system has been positive with the only negative point mentioned being that the studs are too bright at night time. This was addressed by a retrofit dimming facility. Further, the activation of the flashing studs resulted in a decrease in speed, headway and lane change manoeuvres. It is considered that the system should be transferable to other EU countries, subject to regulations about the use of studs and colours. The Highways Agency is currently investigating IRS applications on their network. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting