A workload model to evaluate distracters and driver's aids

The aim of this study is to examine the use of a driver workload simulation model to provide commercial vehicle interface designers a tool to investigate the effects of various types of distracters and driver's aids under varying conditions, prior to test in a simulator or implementation in a prototype. To build the model, a driving scenario was first identified based on the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) driving route. The driving model was created using IMPRINT, a discrete event simulation tool that characterizes four classes of human resources that may contribute to driver workload: visual, auditory, cognitive and psychomotor (VACP). For this initial model we tested limited number and type of distractions. The initial use of a sample of driver aids and their importance to mitigating driver distractions has also been included. Relevance to Industry: This study investigated the use of a driver workload simulation model to provide commercial vehicle interface designers a tool to investigate the impact of the multiple activities an operator performs while driving. A simulation model can predict the changes in driver workload due to multiple secondary tasks performed in varying driving conditions. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.