Driver Mental Workload Requirements on Horizontal Curves Based on Occluded VisionTest Measurements

摘要

This report documents an evaluation of driver mental workload requirements onhorizontal curves based on occluded vision test measurements. Data were collected by using a computerized vision occlusion apparatus to limit the visual input of individual test subjects. The objective of the occluded vision tests was to measure the mental workload associated with two parameters of horizontal curvature: degree of curvature and deflection angle. The vision occlusion test method was found to be sensitive to changes in driver workload values on horizontal curves. The results of the testing indicate that as degree of curvature increases, the significant difference in workload for the majority of deflection angles. The results also indicate that as a driver approaches as horizontal curve, there is a point where the driver will begin to prepare mentally for the increased workload caused by the horizontal curve. Drivers prepare themselves by increasing their workload operating level to match the workload created by the horizontal curve.