Green wave for cyclists: Users' perception and preferences. (April 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: De Angelis, Marco; Stuiver, Arjan; Fraboni, Federico; Prati, Gabriele; Puchades, Víctor Marín; Fassina, Filippo; de Waard, Dick; Pietrantoni, Luca
• Is Part Of: Applied ergonomics. Volume 76(2019)
• Page Start: 113
• Page End: 121
• Publication Date: 2019-04
• Subjects: Green wave -- User acceptance -- User interface design; Human engineering -- Periodicals; 620.82
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2018.12.008
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-6870

Abstract

Abstract: Several innovative measures in traffic control applied in Europe have successfully improved the comfort and safety of cycling, among which is the green waves for cyclists. Consecutive traffic lights are synchronised to create a green wave, increasing comfort and decreasing waiting times and related deliberate red-light running. This study focused on exploring the user acceptance of green wave systems and the user evaluation of six distinct interface designs (i.e. numeric-based countdown, dot-based vertical countdown, dot-based clockwise countdown, LED line, LED road surface, on-bike speed indicator). Results indicate a preference for three systems: numeric-based countdown, LED line and LED road surface. Results also show a significant influence of nationality on the evaluation of the interfaces. Based on our findings, we argue that the numeric-based countdown represents the most promising option for future adaptive green wave implementations. The outcomes of the present study represent a useful evidence and guidance for researchers, designers and decision makers in the field of green waves, mobility and traffic safety. Highlights: The first study to explore and compare users' preference and acceptance of new types of green wave systems for cyclists. LED line, LED road surface, and numeric-based countdown are the most accepted designs. Results have shown a significant interaction between nationality and evaluation of the interfaces. Both LED systems represents an innovative solution in the infrastructure-cyclist communication. The numeric-based countdown option could represent an optimal compromise between users' evaluation and feasibility.