During experiments, we monitor the vehicle's speed and position within the lane, the driver's response time to specified targets, and the number of collisions and speeding incidents. A magnetic head-movement sensor allows us to monitor the driver's visual scanning behavior. The instrumented driving range allows evaluation of subjects' decision-making skills as they drive their own vehicles. Performance measures include response time, brake reaction-time, and decision accuracy. Driver Fatigue and Glare A significant proportion of heavy truck operations involve nighttime driving, irregular shifts, and demanding schedules.
Driver fatigue is a frequent consequence.
Research conducted in the truck simulator laboratory is directed at identifying and finding ways to control the factors that contribute to driver fatigue. One well-recognized problem of nighttime driving is exposure to glare. Light from oncoming vehicle headlights shining directly into a driver's eyes is an example of direct glare. Specular glare is indirect, such as when rearview mirrors reflect the headlights of following vehicles into the driver's eyes. Effect of Glare on Target Detection Configured to replicate a heavy truck cab, our fixed based driving simulator allows researchers to evaluate the effects of prolonged exposure to glare, a common hazard for nighttime drivers.