Described in this paper is a data acquisition and analysis system based on a lap-top computer that is compatible with an ibm personal computer (pc). The hardware consists of a computer with a standardbuss slot and analog-to-digital input/output card. The software permits acquiring up to eight analog signals of data, four of which canbe plotted on the computer display screen as data are acquired. Data can be stored as standard ascii files or in compact binary form tominimize file size and speed input/output. At the end of a data collection run, data can be scaled easily and plotted for review. Additional data reduction features permit data smoothing and crossplots between any pair of variables. The system replaces conventional tape recorders and strip chart recorders and stores data in a format convenient for further computer processing. The system can operate on 12-volt vehicle power and is compact and lightweight. The approach provides a convenient, lightweight portable means to record and displayvehicle motion and driver/rider response variables. Some data reduction can be accomplished online, and data can be easily processed and reviewed between runs to guide subsequent test conditions. Severalpopular lap-top computers with accessible pc busses are compatible with the approach. Some existing systems that could be used include the datavue snap 1 + 1 and the grid case exp. This paper appears in transportation research record no. 1213, Human performance and highway visibility: design, safety, and methods.
Abstract