Although driver support systems are designed to enhance comfort and safety, it is never perfectly clear how these systems will affect driving behaviour over time. This study tested the behavioural impact of using an advanced driver support system that integrated forward collision avoidance, route knowledge (curves and speed), and lane support. The system provided drivers with three levels of support depending on the severity of the situation: 1) information about the potential hazard (e.g., 'sharp curve ahead'), 2) warning (e.g., 'reduce speed for curve'), and 3) intervention (e.g., the vehicle slows itself down). This work was carried out as part of the European project IN-ARTE. Twenty experienced drivers aged 22-56 drove in a driving simulator for an hour per day for 5 days. Half drove in a control group and half drove with the support system. Drivers encountered an average of 10 test scenarios per half-hour (e.g., speed change or front obstacle). IN-ARTE drivers had fewer warnings and interventions than the control group during and after they used the system. They also had better lane keeping with the system and maintained slower speeds after they had used the system. It was concluded that the IN-ARTE system only had a positive impact on driving behaviour. For the covering abstract see ITRD E113725 (C 22328 CD-ROM).
Samenvatting