When some of the existing Variable Message Signs (VMS) began to fail across its network of London roads, TfL and Cubic Transportation Systems needed a solution that would help maintain road safety and efficient travel. After collaborating with the expert team at Messagemaker Displays, a new reliable VMS option was developed that crucially, makes installation when required as quick and easy as possible.
VMS have an important role to play on the London roads network. By displaying essential information such as impending closures and roadworks, delays, planned events and live incidents, they contribute to safe and well-informed navigation. However, existing VMS systems were becoming unreliable, requiring regular maintenance and in some cases were simply failing and beyond repair.
TfL and Cubic Transportation Systems were responsible for finding a solution that would fulfil the standard requirement for clear and reliable signage, but also fit onto the original VMS frame system, to make installation as simple as possible in order to minimise disruption to the road network and improving roadworker safety. After collaborating together, Messagemaker Displays developed the answer with its own Urban VMS.
Neil Jones, Business Development Manager at Messagemaker Displays said: “We came up with a VMS screen that would fit into the pre-existing frame for a quick and easy swap out, ensuring all the connection points matched the original display. For this, we sourced unique power and data connectors to fit the sign. TfL and Cubic Transportation Systems now have a high-quality, reliable and future-proof VMS that can be rolled out across the road network as and when it is needed.”
The Urban VMS communicates real-time messaging, traffic updates, warnings and directions to all road users, using low powered SMD LED technology for a full colour display whilst remaining energy efficient. Measuring at 3000 x 1400mm with a display resolution of 128 x 56 pixels, the modular screen design is easy for repairs and maintenance and benefits from a lifetime of 15+ years.
Neil Ashford, Head of Service Delivery – ITS at Cubic Transportation Systems commented: “The new Urban VMS has helped to improve road safety and ease congestion by communicating to drivers effectively in real time. Messagemaker Displays has also helped to bring long-term value to the project, as we are now able to significantly reduce the time spent on repairing old, failing signage and we know that going forward, what we have is energy efficient, reliable and futureproof.”
To find out more about the Urban VMS range, visit: www.messagemaker.co.uk.
