Technical Appendix to Computer-Based Sign, Luminaires, and Traffic Signal Support Design Tools for State and County Engineers

Computer-based tools for the design of sign, luminaires and traffic signal supports were developed. The tools incorporate the latest adopted design guides and specifications [American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) 2001 Standard Specifications for Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires, and Traffic Signals]. Design worksheets were developed using MathCAD. They include overhead truss cantilever sign, overhead cantilever monotube traffic signal pole, overhead monotube span support, overhead truss span support, overhead truss VMS support, span wire pole, and roadside sign. Foundation design and connection design are not included. The project was conducted within the graduate research program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the design worksheets were reviewed by professional engineers. The final report published as University of Transportation Center for Alabama (UTCA) Report 00467 presents an overview of sign support design methodology, description and verification of the design worksheets, and conclusions and recommendations for further development. The advantages and disadvantages of the approach are discussed. Sufficient detail is presented in the final report for it to serve the technology transfer needs of the industry users as well as serve as an education tool for engineering students. This document serves as the technical appendix to UTCA Report 00467 and provides an example support structure analysis using each of the worksheets.