Every technological advance brings with it a set of problems. Doubtless, when Palaeolithic man first started to use the stone axe and chisel, this was accompanied by repetitive strain and eye injuries.With communication and information technologies used in the vehicle, we have the potential problem of driver distraction. On the other hand new information and communication technologies can provide new ways to tackle old problems, as with safety cameras and Intelligent Speed Adaptation. It has even been claimed that they offer the prospect of accident-free driving. It is vital to know whether these new solutions are more effective than the old ones - are we applying new systems because they exist or because they can genuinely deliver added value? New technologies also liberate the system designer to create totally new systems.We are having to get used to a whole new alphabet soup - ESC, FCW, V2V and so on.Those systems themselves can take many forms including chameleon systems with the ability to adapt to the needs of different drivers and different situations. Will drivers accept them and use them? What are the likely safety impacts of these new systems and how can we promote the introduction of those with the greatest casualty saving potential? Are there any major obstacles to realising the benefits of some systems? Are there lessons that can be learned from experiences in developing and deploying new technologies in other transport modes?” The lecture addresses these issues drawing on a variety of research projects in which the presenter has been involved. (Author/publisher)
Abstract