Intelligent Transportation Systems - City of Oakland

projector technology and the flat screen display technology. Projector technology
involves the use of a projector (front or rear) to reflect an image from a mirror onto a
large screen. The most common rear screen projectors are the Liquid Crystal Display
(LCD) type and the Digital Light Processing (DLP) type. Typically, flat screen system
utilizes gas plasma screens to display images. However, gas plasma screens are more
susceptible to “screen burn” from common images being displayed on a continuous
basis.
When CCTV surveillance cameras are installed in the future, the camera images can be
configured to be displayed on the large screen display to provide a focal point for the
TMC.
Operator Consoles – The operator console is where the TMC management staff will
perform the majority of their duties and should provide enough work space to
accommodate for both on-line and off-line activities and responsibilities. Therefore, when
an operator is not working with the traffic control system (typically non-peak hours)
he/she may perform other assigned day-to-day activities such as traffic analyses and
report writing. There will be one operator working at each console.
The consoles should be designed to support the video display systems and computer
monitors as well as to provide desk space and an area for a keyboard. The consoles
should be placed side-by-side, each in an “L” shaped configuration to facilitate
interaction between the operators. The console hosting the computer can have
keyboard trays and should have cable guides. A minimum of 3 feet by 3 feet of
horizontal table space for each computer monitor is recommended. The 3-foot minimum
depth will provide the operator with adequate tabletop space for other materials, and
allows for the monitors to be placed the appropriate distance away from the operator. It
is desirable to provide room for under-console CPU storage on a retractable shelf for
easy access. The keyboard trays should raise and lower so wheelchairs can get under
the trays.
A 27” vertical knee clearance should be provided at the console. The use of a
"submerged monitor" computer desk should be avoided since it limits legroom, has a
significantly higher cost, and places the monitor at too low a position for long-term
continuous use by an operator.
The console furniture should be modular to allow the accommodation of future
technology upgrades and be ergonomically adjustable to fit individual operator size and
preferences.
Other Furniture – A small table or desk will be provided on one side of the room to
house a controller testing area. The testing area will allow a signal controller to be
connected to one of the workstations for testing and training purposes. A supplementary
desk can be provided at the operator console area to supply additional workspace for
the operator. Book shelves and file cabinets can be used to provide storage for manuals
and reference materials. Additional chairs should be provided for visitors and the
supervisor. Since the City of Oakland intends to use the TMC room as a conference
room on occasion, a conference table and chairs should be provided in the back of the
control room as well.
City of Oakland ITS Strategic Plan
90 September, 2003