摘要: |
Our research investigated methods and technologies to make signalized intersections safer for pedestrians using the capabilities of accessible pedestrian systems. Our research focused on three technologies: acoustic beaconing, passive pedestrian detection, and pedestrian preemption. The effectiveness of proposed enhancements was measured by engineering performance analysis, pedestrian and traffic agency feedback, and an open forum one-day workshop involving constituents of pedestrian advocacy groups. The engineering performance analysis studied both the equipment and user interface from a human factors perspective. The experiments were completed using existing Advanced Accessible Pedestrian Signals (AAPS) hardware. Human factors studies were completed to determine the human response to information presented in both audible and visual format. The changes for improved safety listed below are subject to the consideration of numerous factors before an intersection is equipped with the capability or technology. 1. Audio beaconing is a low cost but highly effective method to direct pedestrians to the destination curb. AAPS hardware modifications are needed to be most effective. 2. Passive pedestrian detection is simple to interface to the existing AAPS equipment but equipment costs are high relative to the AAPS equipment. 3. Information conveyed during preemption must have a low cognitive load and unambiguous interpretation. |