Computational Vision Model to Assess Work-Zone Conspicuity

Abstract

A computational means to assess the conspicuity of highway features was developed, verified, and then applied to a sample construction work zone scene. This work was conceived as a balance between modeling the complex phenomena within the human visual system and the need for a simple applications-oriented tool for practitioners to derive a quantitative relative assessment of real-world construction work zones to rank choices in terms of conspicuity. The results indicate that the vision model–based tool can assess the relative conspicuity of individual elements of a roadway or roadside scene and is relatively straightforward in use. As such, it holds potential value in virtual prototyping of work-zone sight lines, colors, and placement of hazard warning cues, such as cones, markings, and reflective vests.