Laboratory Overview

The high-fidelity driving simulation facility provides an ideal setting to collect data on driver performance and behavior in a variety of customized scenarios.

Capability:
The DriveSafety DS500C Vection driving simulator features five visual channels providing approximately 140 degrees of perspective, rear-view and side mirrors, and speakers that provide a realistic sound environment. Using the HyperDrive software system, driving scenarios are custom-designed to meet the needs of specific research projects. Situated next to the simulator, the operator station allows the researcher to develop and control research scenarios and to collect a broad range of data on driver performance. A separate control room is used for participant reception, test monitoring, and graduate student research.

A new “eye-tracker” system will soon be added to the driving simulator to test participants’ reaction to visual stimuli. This new device will continuously track and record the driver's eye position to determine where they are looking in the vehicle and along the road. The driving simulation facility also contains a large high-bay area designed to accommodate a planned full-motion driving simulator that will allow test participants to experience the sensation of bumps, forward and backward acceleration, and other sensory-related movements.

Carefully constructed research and laboratory facilities such as this one allow researchers and engineers to test and evaluate road designs and vehicle innovations before they are actually deployed. Potentially, millions of road construction dollars can be saved and many lives spared through a proactive approach to safety.

The simulator has been used on projects to:

• Compare the most effective type of animal warning signs;
• Evaluate the effectiveness of safety innovations;
• Test the use of cellular phones and their impact on driver behavior;
• Examine highway improvements in the lab before construction.

Past and Present Partners:
State Transportation Departments
Equipment designers and manufacturers

Contacts:
Michael Kelly
mkelly@coe.montana.edu
Office: (406) 994-7377

Suzanne Lassacher
suzannel@coe.montana.edu
Office: (406) 994-6010