Adaptation to driver-assistance systems depending on experience

Abstract

Many tasks that until recently could only be performed by humans are now entrusted to machines. Automation plays an increasingly important role in many areas of life, and its special role is observed in broadly understood transport, affecting the mobility, behaviour, and safety of drivers. Faced with the threat of a large number of accidents, deaths, and injuries, vehicles equipped with driver-assistance systems, the so-called ADAS (advanced driver-assistance system), are a significant support for the driver in reacting to the unexpected situations. The studies conducted so far indicate that the experience of using these systems may increase not only the comfort but most of all the safety of road users. In Poland, such analyses are still a challenge. The aim of the study designed by scientists from the Motor Transport Institute was to analyse the impact of the experience in using a vehicle equipped with systems on the speedy adaptation to the use of new driver-assistance systems. The adaptation process for the use of three systems was taken into account: adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection system, and lane keeping assistant. The research was carried out in real traffic. Particular attention was paid to the reactions of people who have no experience with the use of driver-assistance systems in vehicles, compared to those who have used these systems before. Proprietary questionnaires on the drivers’ feelings were used for the analyses. As expected, the analyses showed that experience with driver-assistance systems is an important factor influencing the speed of adaptation and the sense of comfort in using the systems.

Keywords

• driver-assistance systems
• adas
• road safety
• driver behaviour
• experience