Citation

Hopkins JB. Transp. Res. Rec. 1977; 628: 1-6.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1977, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences USA, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper reviews the objectives, content, and results of a large number of research projects sponsored by the Federal Railroad Administration and related to possible improvement concepts associated with motorist-warning systems at railroad-highway grade crossings. The benefits sought included increased effectiveness, reduced cost, and elimination of institutional constraints. The subjects that were investigated include the application of modularization concepts and alternative components in warning-control logic systems, cost reduction in automatic gate equipment, flashing lights using xenon flashlamp technology, functional requirements and the relevant equipment for lightning protection and standby power, and studies of alternative or novel warning system concepts. The potential for meaningful advances is found to be limited and is severely constrained by the technically challenging nature of the functional and safety requirements.