Understanding and Mitigating the Dynamic Behavior of RICWS and DMS Under Wind Loading

Status: Complete
Report Date: 07/06/2020

Summary:

Research showed that dynamic message signs (DMS) with breakaway components handle wind-induced vibrations adequately for a 23.8-year fatigue life. The roadside installations remain an economical alternative to overhead DMS. Rural intersection conflict warning signs (RICWS) vibrate noticeably under wind forces. The breakaway base sleeves diminish post stiffness, and the signs are not heavy enough to manage wind stresses well. MnDOT is considering using a single tube of steel or aluminum for support posts.

Final Deliverables:

Understanding and Mitigating the Dynamic Behavior of RICWS and DMS Under Wind Loading (Report #2020-18)
Effects of Wind Loading on Roadside DMS and RICWS (Research Summary)

Related Materials:

Wind Impact and Breakaway Performance of Road Message Signs (Blog Post)
New Project: Protecting RICWS and DMS From Wind Damage (Blog Post)

Related Research:

Project Personnel:

Principal Investigator: Lauren Linderman
Technical Liaison: Jihshya Lin
Project Coordinator: David Glyer
Panel Members:
    Benjamin Jilk - Bridges
    Cathy French - University of Minnesota
    Ethan Peterson - Traffic Engineering
    Lauren Linderman - University of Minnesota
    Michael Kronzer - Metro District
    Ralph Adair - Metro District
    Susan Zarling - Traffic Engineering
    Terry Haukom - Metro District