Project Title: Automated Dynamic Message (DMS) Message Design And Display

Sponsor: Texas Department of Transportation

Principle Investigator: Conrad Dudek

Research Staff:

TTI Project Number: 440232

Start Date: 9/1/01

End Date: 8/31/02

Abstract: Dynamic message signs (DMS) are being deployed extensively in major metropolitan areas in Texas. Proper message design and application on these signs is a complex process. Although many messages can be pre-designed and called up from a message library when needed, transportation management center (TMC) operators must often modify existing messages or develop new messages in real-time to deal with the unique aspects of an incident or other special situation. The purpose of this project is to explore the possibility of automating all or parts of the message design process so as to assist center operators in their real-time traffic management efforts using DMS. As part of this project, researchers will:

1. Develop the logic (flow charts, conditional rules, etc.) needed to automate or provide decision support to the various parts of the DMS message design process.

2. Develop a proof-of-concept prototype of an automated DMS message design and display system.

3. Conduct feasibility and validation testing of the message logic and the prototype using operators from selected TxDOT TMCs.