National Older Driver Research and Training Center

Examining issues surrounding older driver assessment, remediation, rehabilitation, and the use of alternatives to the car.

Virtual Driving

Early Availability Driving Simulator (EADS) at the NODRTC

In January 2005, the construction of a high-fidelity driving simulator was completed for use by researchers at the National Older Driver Research and Training Center (NODRTC) at the University of Florida. This simulator is the first of two driving simulators to be used for investigations primarily related to the capabilities and limitations of older drivers; hence it has been referred to as the Early Availability Driving Simulator (EADS).

The Visual Display: This simulator provides a large forward field-of-view (fov) of 180 degrees and displays virtual objects behind the car. The entire scene is computer-generated.

Picture of the Simulator workstation with display and car in the background.
View of the simulator field of view (including rear view mirror display) and computer workstation.

The wide fov is accomplished by connecting three flat screens with scenes provided by three high intensity projectors (Sanyo, 2000 ANSI Lumens). Although a continuous curvilinear surface would provide a better representation of the forward scene, after a few minutes of practice the process of “perceptual filling” prevails and subjects indicate that they notice no partitioning of the three separate segments. The wide fov allows drivers to make changes in direction at intersections in a very natural way. Overall contrast can be altered to simulate reduced visibility associated with heavy rainfalls or fog.

Picture of white component underneath hood of the car.
Junction box that distributes computerized signals to steering wheel, accelerator, brake and retrieves turn-signal indications.

The Vehicle Configuration: In the 1997 Dodge Neon car, the “driver” operates normal accelerator, brake, and signalizing and steering controls with the corresponding visual scene responding accordingly. Longitudinal and lateral movement allows the driver to speed up or slow down, come to a halt, steer laterally including lane changes and changes of direction at intersections. All changes are controlled by software that interface a junction box under the hood of the vehicle.

The simulator is built on a computerized platform developed by the Systems Technology Inc. (STI) of Hawthorne, CA. The specific configuration is the STISIM Drive Model 500W produced by STI. The vehicle and tire model runs on a dedicated processor that is linked to the simulation via a network. It operates at fast update rates necessary to provide high-fidelity simulation of the vehicle dynamic responses as well as provides proper steering force/feel feedback. Road-feel is also captured via a low-frequency audio woofer and amplifier providing engine, transmission and road noise at varying intensities and frequencies.

Auditory Display and Apparent Motion

Sounds related to vehicle performance and external factors are simulated by the STISIM Drive software. These sounds include engine sound mentioned above, tire screech due to heavy braking or high cornering loads, horn, and the turn indicators. External sounds include a crash sound, siren sound, and tire noise that can discriminate between on and off-road surfaces. We also have the capability of substituting standard sounds provided with the simulator’s customized sound files and playing recorded messages at specific locations in the driving scenario.

Picture of a research participant driving the simulator while Dr. Classen takes notes.
Researcher, Dr. Sherrilene Classen, evaluates research participant using the EADS.

Workstation

A control area situated to the rear of the vehicle overlooks the driver, vehicle and viewing screens. At this workstation the three visual screens are duplicated and a fourth control monitor allows the experimenter to set parameters for each trial and to monitor data being collected. Two-way communication is maintained via speakers and microphones in the vehicle and at the workstation.

Measurement and Performance Recording

The recording software permits the acquisition of up to 40 vehicle, driver and simulation parameters. Specific data recorded depends upon the driving scenario being used and the assessment goals. For our present studies, the parameters below are recorded:

In addition to these parameters, statistical data such as mean and standard deviation of parameters such as lane deviation, speed, steering angle can be included. An Open Module can also be used to develop additional performance measures such as physiological indices of GSR, EMG, or EEG.

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