Saab IVSS Distraction and Drowsiness Project
The instrumented Saab 9-3 used in the project
It is known that people find it difficult to maintain their level of attention for a long time, for instance when they are driving. But how distracted do people get as drivers? Does it help if they are given a warning? Are warning systems well designed? These questions, together with others, were adressed in a unique research project where the level of attention of a driver, while driving in real traffic, was measured and warning systems designed to help drivers was tested.
DRIVER ATTENTION - IVSS PROJECT
The project, which is based on field studies with both car and lorry drivers, evaluated systems designed to help drivers in keeping their attention on driving, and also evaluated the effectiveness of technical solutions and the acceptance of warning systems by users. Another part consists of investigating how the technique was developed so that it can be used in the automotive industry.
VTI is conducting the tests with cars
The tests with cars comprised eight test persons who all drive daily in their jobs. During the test period they drove the test car both at work and in their free time. Each test person used the specially equipped car for four weeks. VTI, together with Saab Automobile, equipped the car with GPS and other measuring equipment to make recordings of driving. During the tests, various data will be collected such as speed, braking, the gear used, whether or not the driver has passengers. Using Eye Tracking, the face of the driver was filmed and eye movements recorded. A film also was taken continually, recording what the driver was looking at and what he/she was doing with his/her hands.
During the first ten days of each driver's test period, their driving behavior was recorded and afterwards they answered a questionnaire regarding their expectations of the system. During the remaining part of the test the system was active. They continued to drive and receive feedback in the form of warnings. The warning is vibration in the driver's seat. Passengers, if any, did not notice the warning. At the end of the test period the drivers answered another questionnaire regarding their impressions of the system. After the test periods, views were also gathered via focus groups. Field tests with cars extended from September 2007 until June 2008.
An IVSS project
Partners in the project were VTI, Saab Automobile, Scania AB, Smart Eye AB, Siemens VDO and Linköping University. The project is part of the IVSS (Intelligent Vehicle Safety Systems) programme, a Swedish national programme with the aim to stimulate research and development for the road safety of tomorrow.