Factors affecting the visual ergonomics of train drivers in VR simulation driving: Snow and Ice line environment and train speed

Abstract

Optimal visual ergonomics is a crucial cornerstone for the safe operation of the railway system, and the extreme line environment and varying driving speeds may affect drivers’ visual ergonomics. To elucidate the impact of the Snow and Ice (SI) line environment and different driving speeds on train drivers’ visual ergonomics, this paper introduces a novel research method. Utilizing a VR simulation driving scenario, the physiological parameters, task performance, and subjective evaluations of 44 participants were analyzed using IBM SPSS 26.0. The analysis covered conditions under two line environments (SI line and basic line) and three driving speeds (120 km/h, 160 km/h, and 200 km/h). The research reveals that the line environment, train speed, and their interaction effects significantly affect train drivers’ visual ergonomics in the following ways: (1) In the SI line environment, drivers experience significantly increased visual fatigue and discomfort, along with decreased visual performance. (2) With the increase of driving speed, drivers face heightened psychological pressure, shorter reaction times, and reduced accuracy. (3) The interaction effect between line environment and driving speed diminishes visual ergonomics by increasing physiological load and psychological stress, disrupting drivers’ emotional state and attention distribution, thus forming a negative cycle in train drivers’ visual ergonomics. The research findings provide extensive practical applications and customized recommendations for real-world driving scenarios.