Abstract
OBJECTIVES : A fog generated field test was conducted to analyze the relationship between the luminance of variable speed-limit signs and the legibility distance under various fog density conditions. By using this study, appropriate luminance values can be selected depending on the density of fog. METHODS : An actual tunnel was selected as the area to conduct the test, as other places cannot maintain the fog condition because of rapid air current. Ninety-two subjects were recruited for this test, which took place during the course of three days. Visibility-distance detecting sensor was used to measure the visibility distance due to the fog density time, simultaneously with the evaluation of legibility distance by subjects. RESULTS : The test results show the relationship between luminance values and the legibility distance corresponding to the visibility distance due to fog. According to the technical test results, lower luminance value such as $7000cd/m^2$ corresponds to less legibility distance compared to higher values such as $20000cd/m^2$ or $40000cd/m^2$. However, the amount of difference between $20000cd/m^2$ and $40000cd/m^2$ is negligible in our test. CONCLUSIONS : The results of this study can be used to select appropriate luminance of valuable speed signs under fog conditions. Hence, drivers can expect to have more room to respond to adverse weather conditions, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.
