Bridging the Gap ― Technology Development & Deployment
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Bridging the Gap ― Technology Development & Deployment
Larry Lair – Vice President
3M Traffic Safety Systems Division
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3M and Traffic Safety
- Invented retroreflective sign sheeting in 1930s
- Evolved into primary warning and guidance device for drivers
- Hundreds of millions of dollars in R&D and capital investment
- Leading innovator in optics, transparent inks, durable fluorescence,wet reflectivity
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Sign Performance
“Retroreflection” – Returning of light directly back to its source
- Freight hauling truck drivers are disadvantaged because of significantly greater sign “observation angles”
- New 3M technology has reduced that disparity
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Amount of light required to see during hours of darkness doubles every 13 years
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Sign Sheeting Evolution
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Because what you see during the day ...
Is not always what you get at night!
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How Pavement Markings Make Our Roadways Safer
Warning Visual Guidance
Lane Delineation Pedestrian Safety
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Wet-Reflective Markings
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States Are Deploying Safety Innovations
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Government Regulation Impedes Innovation
- 23 CFR 635.411 – “Proprietary Products Rule”
- Prevents deployment of emerging highway safety technologies
- Makes “source of supply” higher priority than safety and innovation
- Deters future technology development
- Deprives motorists of advanced safety solutions
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Steps Toward Regulatory Reform
- ARTBA leading industry response
- AASHTO advocates states’ role in identifying, deploying innovations
- FHWA considers next steps
SLIDE 12
Thank You
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