Current ICT Project
Investigators:
  Prof. Ray Benekohal (Primary)
Project Title:
  Evaluation of Performance of Solar Powered Flashing Beacons
Start Date: 7/1/2008
End Date: 6/30/2010
Summary of Project:
  This study will determine the performance of the flashing beacons in a variety of lighting conditions, modes of flashing operation, its compliance with the requirements. The use of solar powered flashing beacons on state highway system is increasing with wide spread use of LED module in the beacon. However, the flashing time duration depends on the battery type used, environment it is operating at, and the flashing mode used. The flashing mode and visibility of the beacon change as the battery charge level decreases. The performance of the flashing beacons is evaluated in a variety of lighting conditions and modes of flashing operation. The compliance with the MUTCD or ITE requirements and their light intensity (visibility) as the battery charge level decreases are determined.
Objective of Project:
  To evaluate the performance of the flashing beacons in a variety of lighting conditions in controlled lab environment, modes of flashing operation including the flash rate required by MUTCD, its compliance with the MUTCD or ITE requirements, and its light intensity (visibility) as the battery charge level decreases.
Expected Outcome:
  The proposed research would lead to improved traffic safety and operation at intersections, reduction in crashes at sites where these portable flashing beacons are used, and a reduction in crashes at stop controlled intersections.
Click here to check the status of this project.
Last Updated: 11/18/2009