Essential Definitions for Public Transport Signage and Printing
A TRO Plate, also known as a Time Plate or Traffic Plate, is a sign fitted to a bus stop post or nearby area. It is used in conjunction with clearway markings and must conform to DfT drawing standards.
Navigating the intricate world of public transport signage & printing can be overwhelming. Our glossary provides clear definitions of key terms, offering valuable insight for professionals, enthusiasts, and those seeking to understand these critical components.
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Bleed (Printed Bleed) In printing, “bleed” refers to an extra margin around artwork designed to be cut away, ensuring a seamless edge of color or design.
EPS (Encapsulated PostScript) EPS files are self-contained PostScript documents used for embedding images or drawings into another document while maintaining integrity.
Flag (Bus Flag, Bus Stop Flag, Plates) A flag is a flat or fabricated plate attached to a bus stop post to provide key visual information.
Media Size The maximum printed size for paper media used in a timetable case.
Insert Strip (Infill Strip) A powder-coated strip, usually made from aluminum or plastic, designed to add contrast against anodized finishes.
Pantone® Colour (PMS) Pantone® colours are a standardized system used in lithographic printing, ideal for corporate branding.
RAL (Reichs-Ausschuß für Leferbedingungen und Gütesicherung) RAL is a color matching system for powder coating, offering close but not exact matches to other systems.
Real Time Information (Real Time Passenger Information) A digital system that provides live updates on bus arrival times, delays, and service changes, often displayed on electronic signage or mobile apps.
Roundel (Finnial, Stand ID Plate) A round plate, typically at the top of a post, used to display specific route numbers or letters.
TRO Plate (Time Plate, Sign Plate, Traffic Plate, Clearway Plate) A TRO Plate is a sign fitted to a bus stop post or nearby area and is used alongside clearway markings. It adheres to DfT drawing no 974 (for Bus Stops) or 975 (for Bus Stands).
Visible Height/Width The height/width within a timetable case or on a bus stop flag where the graphics can be seen. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Each term plays a vital role in public transport signage design, ensuring consistency, accessibility, and compliance with standards. For instance:
For official guidelines on public transport signage standards, visit the UK Department for Transport – Traffic Signs Manual.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Our jargon-busting glossaries are a go-to resource for anyone dealing with public transport infrastructure. This one focusses on signage and printing – from ensuring brand consistency with Pantone® colors to understanding the technicalities of TRO plates, this guide helps bridge the gap between technical jargon and practical application.
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