The Swedish Road and Transport Research Institute (VTI) has three advanced moving base driving simulators. The aim of this project was to develop and implement new models concerning vibration, noise and graphics in order to improve the realism in the simulators. Moreover, a validation study was to be conducted. Within the frame of the project the following were achieved; improvement of the tyre/road vibration models; improvement of the motion system by changing the rotation centre; improvement of the noise module facilitating reproduction of noise from tyre/road; synchronization of the impressions from graphics, noise and vibrations caused by the road surface. The validity of the models was tested in the VTI Simulator III. Statistical testing of differences between the car and the simulator indicated absolute validity for the subjective ratings of evenness and noise level and the objective measure speed, with the exception of areas surrounding speed limit signs where only relative validity was found. Relative validity was also indicated for the variable overall comfort. The results from the different validations show that the improvements have been successful and the driver in the simulator can now see, hear and feel the sensation of any road surface irregularities exactly when the wheels hit that part of the road. However, several improvements in the simulator models can still be desired. (Author/publisher) This report may be accessed by Internet users at http://www.vti.se/en/publications/improving-the-realism-in-the-vti-driv…
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