A new driving simulator enables researchers to study how the presence of in-vehicle devices affects driving safety. It also can help measure factors such as driver workloads, how aging affects driving abilities and general driver behavior. The simulator is built around a full- sized automobile with computer-generated images and sounds. Video cameras record views of the instrument panel and the driver's faces, hands and feet. The new simulator has more driving settings. The same model is used by other research institutions, which enables them to share data and exchange programs. The first experiment was on warnings to drivers when their vehicle leaves the road. Each two-hour session produces about 1 MB of data and 90 minutes of videotape. The article describes the components of the system and their installation.
Abstract