BACKWhat are the benefits of LED traffic signs?
12th August 2022
An Introduction to LED Traffic Signs
LED traffic signs are roadside signs that illuminate to provide information, or warn motorists of upcoming hazards. There are two main types of LED traffic signs; variable message signs (VMS), and fixed message LED signs. These signs are suitable for permanent fixture in place or for use on a mobile base which allows for easy manoeuvring to different locations.
VMS are comprised of a full screen of LED’s, allowing for both text and symbol messages to be displayed. Furthermore, our VMS management software allows for remote messaging changes and scheduling on VMS devices.
In contrast, fixed message LED signs are designed with a specific arrangement of LEDs to serve a specific purpose. This can be a specific symbol, message, or both. For example, the Vehicle Activated Warning Sign (VAWS) will illuminate a “SLOW DOWN” message as a vehicle approaches traveling above the road speed limit.
This post will outline the benefits of LED traffic signs as a key element in the UK highways network.
Provide up-to-date information
With advanced control boards and modern sign technology, both temporary and permanent VMS and fixed message signs can be integrated with highly advanced software. This allows users to communicate with signs in order to display real-time information. This is highly beneficial for traffic management. By using integrated software systems, LED signs can take information from various data sources such as crowd sourcing and in-situ traffic monitoring to display onto the sign.
VMS screens are used to instantly communicate urgent information to road users. In the event of a traffic collision, the signs illuminate with warning hazard symbols and other messages to road users. This helps to reduce disruption and manage traffic on the highway. Other warnings can include fog ahead, variable speed limits, congestion, and estimated journey times.
Additionally, fixed message LEDs signs are compatible with internal radar fittings. Approaching vehicles trigger the radar in the sign, which illuminates to catch the attention of the driver. For example, the Speed Indicator Device displays the exact speed of a vehicle going above the speed limit in real time.
Eye-catching Signage Solutions
LED signs don’t blend into the environment. The bright (and sometimes flashing) lights on an LED sign stand out from their surroundings, allowing the message to be clearer and therefore more likely to have an impact on the road user.
A Vehicle Activated Speed sign (VAS) is a sign that illuminates when the approaching vehicle is traveling above the speed limit. This gives the motorist ownership of the fact that they are speeding.
Safety standards also contribute to the increase in visibility of LED signs. All traffic signs from Messagemaker Displays come equipped with intelligent light sensors to adjust the brightness of the LEDs according to the environment, and angled beam width LEDs to ensure the light is facing directly onto the highway only. This maximizes the visibility of the sign at all times, as well as minimizing the light pollution caused and thus distraction to other road users.
Versatility of LED Traffic Signs
With a VMS, the displayed message can change with just the touch of a button. This gives one sign multiple applications due to the versatility of different information display capabilities, depending on the given circumstance. For example, the Urban VMS can display information regarding journey times, directions, hazard warnings, and much more. As mentioned previously, these message updates can also be amended in real-time. The versatility of an LED traffic sign provides a large advantage over standard static signs.
There are many benefits of LED traffic signs, categorized into three main areas; up-to-date information, eye-catching, and versatility. Each factor increases the advantage of the signs and gives an edge over static signage.
Want to find out more about our LED traffic range? Get in touch or book a visit to our demo room and check out what we have to offer.
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