Tern Symbols

Tern symbols were crafted to provide maximum visibility of visual information, despite difficult circumstances, such as movement at high speed, short viewing duration, long viewing distances and bad viewing conditions. This is crucial for adequate information perception in vehicular road traffic, as well as for citizens effected by visual impairments in order to profit from inclusive information.

A part of this symbol set was developed during the research project IN-SAFETY (Infrastructure and Safety, 2005–2008), Sixth EU Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development Priority. Assisted by a design panel of experts from five EU countries, 457 symbols were collected and subsequently 2,977 symbol/pictogram variants were elaborated for submission to an iterative process of testing and redesign. The tests were conducted in the Czech Republic, in Hungary, Spain, and in Austria, involving a total of 2.667 test persons.

Due to its prime focus, the Tern symbol set covers mainly road traffic and mobility related aspects. All symbols are ready for conversion for Variable Message Signs (VMS). Lately also many public information symbols from standards like ISO 7001 and ÖNORM A 3011 were adapted for improved visibility and included in the Tern symbol set.

Below a small selection of the wide range of symbols available. A sortable table with easy access to all Tern Symbols is currently available at the visys.pro (Stefan Egger).

					Public Transport
					Baggage
					Categories of vehicles

					Pictograms for warnings
					Services and facilities