Abstract
In this study, human kinematic response resulting from lane change manoeuvres was quantified. First of all, human response during lane change manoeuvres is assessed through Desdemona research simulator, enabling driver in the loop control of a vehicle model with near-realistic vehicle dynamics. As such this driving simulator allows for an assessment of occupant motion due to vehicle dynamics. Based on one preliminary test, it was observed that there is substantial lateral head movement, primarily due to lateral loads due to vehicle motions, but also due to the driver anticipating on the steering to be performed. In a second study, an ISO 3888-1 double lane change track, simulated in a vehicle dynamics model resulted in vehicle motions. These vehicle motions were applied to a simplified vehicle interior model in which the MADYMO Active Human Model was positioned. This model allowed for a variation in attentiveness, for which two extremes were simulated: an attentive driver and an inattentive driver as well as an inattentive passenger. Lateral body movement was observed due to lateral bending of the complete spine. Upper torso (T1) lateral excursion reached values of 300 mm in inattentive conditions, while they were limited to 200 mm in attentive conditions. Head centre of gravity excursion reached values of 450 mm in inattentive conditions, while they were limited to 270 mm in attentive conditions. Muscle activation patterns showed that left muscles were activated first, followed by right muscles later, both reaching their maximum activation level as fast as the controller allowed. From this study it was concluded that Desdemona research simulator allows for an assessment of occupant kinematics due to near-realistic vehicle dynamics. Additionally, the numerical human model simulations showed that driver inattention is hazardous since larger excursions occur, possibly resulting in a less optimal position with respect to the restraint systems.
Keywords: driving simulator, multi-body simulation, human modelling, posture maintenance, muscle control, double lane change