Haptic interface of driver-assistance system based on safe driving evaluation

Abstract

A previous study proposed a driver-assistance system (DAS) using a haptic interface to encourage drivers to prepare for spontaneous deceleration behavior against potential collision risk. Driving simulator experiments showed that drivers' reaction time were shortened while using the haptic DAS. However, there existed concerns regarding drivers' risk compensation behavior while using the system. Therefore, the present paper proposes an improved version of the aforementioned system. Experiments were performed to better understand the perception characteristics of seat protrusion haptic stimulus, and furthermore, new features such as a safe driving evaluation feedback were added in order to prevent drivers' risk compensation behavior. Results of driving simulator experiments indicated promising effects of the improved system in comparison to the previous system.