Noticeability of illuminated route signs for tsunami evacuation

When a large tsunami occurs at night, greater casualties can be expected than might occur during a similar daytime event. In this study, we investigated illuminated route signs for tsunami evacuation by examining noticeability under different installation conditions. We began by installing prototype route signs in a coastal town where tsunami damages have been predicted. Then, we conducted an evacuation behavior experiment of assumed tourists. The results showed that the route signs had noticeability problems for people who were unfamiliar with the area. Accordingly, in an effort to improve noticeability, we verified various route sign types based on subjective evaluations using computer graphics (CG) images. As a result, route sign noticeability increased as the display panel became larger, and that the addition of an 800 lm flash light to the sign improved its noticeability. Additionally, our investigation showed that noticeability trends were similar to those for the wayfinding effect. Finally, we fabricated a number of actual route signs and analyzed their noticeability through experimental observations. As a result, 90% of the test subjects noticed the route sign, which had a 1600 lm flash light, a 360 (w) ×720 (h) mm display panel, and the setting height of 4.5 m.