A Virtual Driving Education Simulation System - Hardware and Software with Pilot Study 2013-01-1407

Novice drivers are often ill-equipped to safely operate a motor vehicle due to their limited repertoire of skills and experiences. However, automotive simulation tools can be applied to better educate young drivers for a number of common driving scenarios. In this paper, the Clemson Automotive Training System (CATS) will be presented to educate and train novice drivers to safely operate four wheel passenger vehicles on paved roadways. A portable automotive simulator can be programmed to emulate a variety of high-crash rate scenarios and roadway geometries. Drivers receive instructions regarding proper driving techniques and behaviors with an opportunity to practice the given vehicle maneuver. An on-line evaluation methodology has been designed to analyze the drivers' capabilities at handling these roadway events. First, a pre-simulation questionnaire evaluates their basic understanding of everyday driving situations. Second, when driving, individuals are assessed on multiple factors including vehicle speed, yaw angle, lateral acceleration, steering angle, and proper lane adherence while navigating the implemented track. Third, individuals complete a post-simulation questionnaire. Finally, a driving score is displayed on the computer screen to indicate the driver's performance. An initial human subject pilot study of novice, young, and seasoned drivers has been conducted. Overall, the driver performance improved an average of 12.75% (novice), 5.67% (young), and 4.31% (seasoned) which offers an indication of the driving simulation system's merits.