3D Sign Structures in AutoCAD
Full support is provided in our other products, such as KeyLINES, KeySIGNALS and KeyLIGHTS, for drawing a 3D sign structure. These are automatically positioned on Civil 3D surfaces and include BIM data directly from the KeyPOST, validated structural design. The structure can be exported via IFC or directly imported into Navisworks in your coordination models.

Sign Selection
Fully coloured sign face designs can be imported from KeySIGN, but if you don’t have these, signs can also be selected from generic shapes and the required dimensions entered. KeyPOST accommodates combinations of signs, and also any sign shape, for example TSRGD Diagram number 2403.1 Boundary sign shown here.

Graphical Method for Determining Wind Loading
The Site or 'Environs' wizard allows for the wind pressure to be set for any sign installation, implementing the latest National Annex to BS EN 12899-1:2007, and also the more complete BS EN 1991-1-4:2005 Eurocode 1 where appropriate which will mostly give lower wind loads and therefore more economical designs. The location can also be selected on a wind map. This sets the general expected wind loading for a region or Local Authority area, but specific site conditions can then be fine tuned as necessary to take into account, for example, distance from shoreline.

Automatic Suggested Installation Details
KeyPOST will suggest a range of valid post and foundation details, depending on selected criteria, for example if a planted foundation is required to clear footway services, or if the number of posts must be specified. Each suggested design can be viewed graphically, and the full details of each examined until the final design is committed.

Full, Transparent Output and Comprehensive Reporting
A detailed report is available for any design, with all calculations and assumptions made clear so that any design can be checked for accuracy and suitability. This clearly indicates all passes and failures of any aspect of each proposal.

Complex Sign Arrangements
Multiple signs can be added to the posts and the weight of each and offset from the supports can also be specified, allowing the inclusion of Variable Message Signs. This allows for ‘what if’ scenario testing perhaps to check whether small additional or temporary signs can safely be added to an existing sign installation. The graphical, drag-and-drop interface shows all objects fully.

Post Manager
Manufacturers’ data is specified in standardised XML format and can easily be imported as new types become available. Suggested designs can be restricted to a particular manufacturer, post type or material, or to Passively Safe supports only (or any combination and/or number).

Traffic Light System for Validity of Design
Designs are automatically checked, and passes (and fails) for each criteria is shown using a simple traffic light system (shown lower left in this image). Sometimes only a subtle tweak such as swapping from one post size to another will cause all of the lights to go green, indicating structural validity of the design. Other criteria are also checked for example passive safety and that the signs are above a minimum mounting height.