Experimental modeling of the effect of hurricane wind forces on driving behavior and vehicle performance

2015 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 159 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jose M. Rodriguez, MS ◽  
Julius Codjoe ◽  
Osama Osman ◽  
Sherif Ishak, PhD ◽  
Brian Wolshon, PhD
Keyword(s):  
Mathematical Models ◽  
Driving Simulator ◽  
Planning Process ◽  
Lateral Displacement ◽  
Weather Conditions ◽  
Driving Behavior ◽  
Hurricane Evacuation ◽  
Vehicle Performance ◽  
Hurricane Wind ◽  
Lateral Displacements

While traffic planning is important for developing a hurricane evacuation plan, vehicle performance on the roads during extreme weather conditions is critical to the success of the planning process. This novel study investigates the effect of gusty hurricane wind forces on the driving behavior and vehicle performance. The study explores how the parameters of a driving simulator could be modified to reproduce wind loadings experienced by three vehicle types (passenger car, ambulance, and bus) during gusty hurricane winds, through manipulation of appropriate software. Thirty participants were then tested on the modified driving simulator under five wind conditions (ranging from normal to hurricane category 4). The driving performance measures used were heading error and lateral displacement. The results showed that higher wind forces resulted in more varied and greater heading error and lateral displacement. The ambulance had the greatest heading errors and lateral displacements, which were attributed to its large lateral surface area and light weight. Two mathematical models were developed to estimate the heading error and lateral displacements for each of the vehicle types for a given change in lateral wind force. Through a questionnaire, participants felt the different characteristics while driving each vehicle type. The findings of this study demonstrate the valuable use of a driving simulator to model the behavior of different vehicle types and to develop mathematical models to estimate and quantify driving behavior and vehicle performance under hurricane wind conditions.

scholarly journals Validation of Vehicle Driving Simulator from Perspective of Velocity and Trajectory Based Driving Behavior under Curve Conditions

Energies ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 14 (24) ◽  
pp. 8429
Author(s):  
Liang Chen ◽  
Jiming Xie ◽  
Simin Wu ◽  
Fengxiang Guo ◽  
Zheng Chen ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Driving Simulator ◽  
Short Term Memory ◽  
Road Traffic ◽  
Lateral Displacement ◽  
Safety Evaluation ◽  
Driving Behavior ◽  
Steering Wheel ◽  
Vehicle Speed ◽  
Driving Simulators ◽  
Convenient Setting

With their advantages of high experimental safety, convenient setting of scenes, and easy extraction of control parameters, driving simulators play an increasingly important role in scientific research, such as in road traffic environment safety evaluation and driving behavior characteristics research. Meanwhile, the demand for the validation of driving simulators is increasing as its applications are promoted. In order to validate a driving simulator in a complex environment, curve road conditions with different radii are considered as experimental evaluation scenarios. To attain this, this paper analyzes the reliability and accuracy of the experimental vehicle speed of a driving simulator. Then, qualitative and quantitative analysis of the lateral deviation of the vehicle trajectory is carried out, applying the cosine similarity method. Furthermore, a data-driven method was adopted which takes the longitudinal displacement, lateral displacement, vehicle speed and steering wheel angle of the vehicle as inputs and the lateral offset as the output. Thus, a curve trajectory planning model, a more comprehensive and human-like operation, is established. Based on directional long short-term memory (Bi–LSTM) and a recurrent neural network (RNN), a multiple Bi–LSTM (Mul–Bi–LSTM) is proposed. The prediction performance of LSTM, MLP model and Mul–Bi–LSTM are compared in detail on the validation set and testing set. The results show that the Mul–Bi–LSTM model can generate a trajectory which is very similar to the driver’s curve driving and have a preferable generalization performance. Therefore, this method can solve problems which cannot be realized in real complex scenes in the simulator validation. Selecting the trajectory as the validation parameter can more comprehensively and intuitively reflect the simulator’s curve driving state. Using a speed model and trajectory model instead of a real car experiment can improve the efficiency of simulator validation and lay a foundation for the standardization of simulator validation.

scholarly journals Assessing the Influence of Adverse Weather on Traffic Flow Characteristics Using a Driving Simulator and VISSIM

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 830 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chen Chen ◽  
Xiaohua Zhao ◽  
Hao Liu ◽  
Guichao Ren ◽  
Yunlong Zhang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Traffic Flow ◽  
Driving Simulator ◽  
Traffic Simulation ◽  
Flow Characteristics ◽  
Weather Conditions ◽  
Driving Behavior ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Microscopic Traffic Simulation ◽  
Adverse Weather ◽  
Traffic Flow Characteristics

The occurrence of adverse weather exacerbates traffic flow conditions, often leading to severe traffic congestions. Many studies have been conducted based on field-collected data to obtain the effects of weather on traffic flow characteristics. However, there is a limitation for filed data-based studies, in that weather conditions and traffic conditions are both noncontrollable and nonrepeatable, making it difficult to comprehensively assess the influence of weather conditions, especially the rare extreme weather conditions, on traffic flow characteristics. This paper proposes to assess these effects with the combination of driving simulator and traffic simulation. A driving simulator can collect driving behavior by conducting weather-related driving simulation experiments, while a microscopic traffic simulation program can evaluate the changes in traffic flow characteristics by inputting driving behavior parameters coming from the driving simulator. The proposed method can overcome the limitation of the field data-based approach. In this paper, the structure of the assessment platform is introduced at first. Then a verification experiment is conducted to measure the influences of adverse weather conditions on traffic flow characteristics. The verification experiment results show that the influences of adverse weather on traffic flow characteristics have consistent tendencies with outcomes from previous research and demonstrate that the method is practicable for the analysis of the influence of weather on traffic flow characteristics. This paper provides a practical way to analyze the influence of weather on traffic flow from driving behavior’s point of view.

Lateral obstacle avoidance control based on driving behavior recognition of the preceding vehicles in adjacent lanes

2020 ◽  
Vol 68 (10) ◽  
pp. 880-892
Author(s):  
Youguo He ◽  
Xing Gong ◽  
Chaochun Yuan ◽  
Jie Shen ◽  
Yingkui Du
Keyword(s):  
Obstacle Avoidance ◽  
Lateral Displacement ◽  
Longitudinal Velocity ◽  
Driving Behavior ◽  
Lateral Acceleration ◽  
Lateral Motion ◽  
Behavior Recognition ◽  
Dynamic Surface ◽  
Lane Changing ◽  
The Impact

AbstractThis paper proposes a lateral lane change obstacle avoidance constraint control simulation algorithm based on the driving behavior recognition of the preceding vehicles in adjacent lanes. Firstly, the driving behavior of the preceding vehicles is recognized based on the Hidden Markov Model, this research uses longitudinal velocity, lateral displacement and lateral velocity as the optimal observation signals to recognize the driving behaviors including lane-keeping, left-lane-changing or right-lane-changing; Secondly, through the simulation of the dangerous cutting-in behavior of the preceding vehicles in adjacent lanes, this paper calculates the ideal front wheel steering angle according to the designed lateral acceleration in the process of obstacle avoidance, designs the vehicle lateral motion controller by combining the backstepping and Dynamic Surface Control, and the safety boundary of the lateral motion is constrained based on the Barrier Lyapunov Function; Finally, simulation model is built, and the simulation results show that the designed controller has good performance. This active safety technology effectively reduces the impact on the autonomous vehicle safety when the preceding vehicle suddenly cuts into the lane.

scholarly journals The effects of flooding and weather conditions on leptospirosis transmission in Thailand

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sudarat Chadsuthi ◽  
Karine Chalvet-Monfray ◽  
Anuwat Wiratsudakul ◽  
Charin Modchang
Keyword(s):  
Sensitivity Analysis ◽  
Public Education ◽  
Mathematical Models ◽  
Disease Transmission ◽  
Transmission Rate ◽  
Weather Conditions ◽  
Transmission Dynamics ◽  
Multiplication Rate ◽  
High Degree ◽  
Transmission Models

AbstractThe epidemic of leptospirosis in humans occurs annually in Thailand. In this study, we have developed mathematical models to investigate transmission dynamics between humans, animals, and a contaminated environment. We compared different leptospire transmission models involving flooding and weather conditions, shedding and multiplication rate in a contaminated environment. We found that the model in which the transmission rate depends on both flooding and temperature, best-fits the reported human data on leptospirosis in Thailand. Our results indicate that flooding strongly contributes to disease transmission, where a high degree of flooding leads to a higher number of infected individuals. Sensitivity analysis showed that the transmission rate of leptospires from a contaminated environment was the most important parameter for the total number of human cases. Our results suggest that public education should target people who work in contaminated environments to prevent Leptospira infections.

Advance Information on the Road: A Simulator Study of the Effect of Road Markings

1976 ◽  
Vol 18 (6) ◽  
pp. 521-532 ◽  
Author(s):  
Harald Witt ◽  
Carl G. Hoyos
Keyword(s):  
Driving Simulator ◽  
Driving Behavior ◽  
Speed Profile ◽  
The Road ◽  
Positive Effects ◽  
Road Signs ◽  
Advance Information ◽  
Simulator Study ◽  
On The Road ◽  
Accident Statistics

Accident statistics and studies of driving behavior have shown repeatedly that curved roads are hazardous. It was hypothesized that the safety of curves could be improved by indicating in advance the course of the road in a more effective way than do traditional road signs. A code of sequences of stripes put on right edge of the pavement was developed to indicate to the driver the radius of the curve ahead. The main characteristic of this code was the frequency of transitions from code elements to gaps between elements. The effect of these markings was investigated on a driving simulator. Twelve subjects drove on simulated roads of different curvature and with different placement of the code in the approach zone. Some positive effects of the advance information could be observed. The subjects drove more steadily, more precisely, and with a more suitable speed profile.

Development of a Driving Simulator for Virtual Evaluation of Vehicle Dynamics

2010 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. M. Sharaf
Keyword(s):  
Performance Evaluation ◽  
Vehicle Dynamics ◽  
Driving Simulator ◽  
Field Testing ◽  
Vehicle Performance ◽  
Vehicle Simulation ◽  
Virtual Platform ◽  
The Cost ◽  
Vehicle Testing ◽  
Simulation Package

This paper delineates the conceptual algorithms of a driving simulator which is intended for vehicle performance evaluation and to act as a virtual platform for research studies and therefore eliminates the cost and dangerous of field testing. A virtual proving ground for vehicle testing has been devised through which virtual handling, traction and ride tests can be performed. A fully instrumented simulator cabin combining the driver and the vehicle simulation package is developed. Different vehicle configurations are simulated during typical sever manoeuvres which reflects the robustness and fidelity of the devised simulator.

scholarly journals A Behavioral Model of Drivers’ Mean Speed Influenced by Weather Conditions, Road Geometry, and Driver Characteristics Using a Driving Simulator Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 2021 ◽  
pp. 1-18
Author(s):  
Mehdi Zolali ◽  
Babak Mirbaha ◽  
Maziyar Layegh ◽  
Hamid Reza Behnood
Keyword(s):  
Latent Variables ◽  
Latent Variable ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Driving Simulator ◽  
Weather Conditions ◽  
Geometric Design ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Novice Drivers ◽  
Sight Distance ◽  
The Mean

Driving above the speed limit is one of the factors that significantly affect safety. Many studies examined the factors affecting the speed of vehicles in the simulated environment. The present study aimed to analyze drivers’ characteristics, time and weather conditions, and geometric features’ effect on mean speed in simulated conditions simultaneously. In this regard, the simulator experiment data of 70 drivers were collected in a two-lane rural highway at six different times, and weather scenarios and their socioeconomic characteristics were collected by a questionnaire. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to capture the complex relationships among related variables. Eleven variables were grouped into four latent variables in the structural model. Latent variables including “Novice Drivers,” “Experienced Drivers,” “Sight Distance,” and “Geometric Design” were defined and found significant on their mean speed. The results showed that “Novice Drivers” have a positive correlation with the mean speed. Meanwhile, “Experienced Drivers,” who drive 12% slower than the novice group, negatively affect the mean speed with a standard regression weight of −0.08. This relation means that young and novice drivers are more inclined to choose higher speeds. Among variables, the latent variable “Sight Distance” has the most significant effect on the mean speed. This model shows that foggy weather conditions strongly affect the speed selection behavior and reduce the mean speed by 40%. Nighttime also reduces mean speed due to poor visibility conditions. Furthermore, “Geometric design” as the latent variable indicates the presence of curves on the simulated road, and it can be concluded that the existence of a curve on the road encourages drivers to slow down, even young drivers. It is noteworthy that the parts of the simulated road with a horizontal curve act as a speed reduction tool for drivers.

scholarly journals The design of an “H” joystick for closed reduction and its application in segmental and comminuted femoral shaft fractures: an innovative technique

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zhaofeng Jia ◽  
Shijin Wang ◽  
Tinghui Xiao ◽  
Wei Jiang ◽  
Tianjian Zhou ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Intramedullary Nailing ◽  
Closed Reduction ◽  
Lateral Displacement ◽  
Femoral Fractures ◽  
Femoral Shaft ◽  
Limb Length Discrepancy ◽  
Bony Union ◽  
Femoral Shaft Fractures ◽  
Shaft Fractures ◽  
Lateral Displacements

Abstract Background: Closed reduction and locked intramedullary nailing has become a common surgical method in the treatment of femoral shaft fractures. Overlap and rotation displacements can usually be corrected through the use of an orthopaedic traction table. However, lateral displacement and angulation persist. Methods: In this paper, we describe a joystick that can be used in the closed reduction of a fracture. It can correct lateral displacement and angulation and has the advantage of multi-direction reduction. The device described in this paper includes two parallel horizontal joysticks, one vertical main joystick and four assistant rods. Moreover, there are many specific spacing holes in the two parallel horizontal joysticks and a groove structure in the vertical main joystick. When the main “H” joystick is pressed, it can adjust lateral displacements and angulation because of the lever principle. The distance between parallel horizontal joysticks and assistant rods can be adjusted to the fracture position and body mass index of different patients. Results: The study participants consisted of 11 males and 5 females with a mean age of 31.0 years. All participants had good closed reduction and achieved bony union without any complications such as infection, nerve injury, nonunion, malunion and limb length discrepancy. By using an “H” joystick, closed femoral shaft fracture reduction and locked intramedullary nailing becomes simpler and faster. Conclusion: Based on the use of this instrument, we can easily and conveniently obtain the correct reduction situation, which leads to better surgical results. This device can be applied in the reduction of clinical femoral fractures and gradually extended to the reduction of other fractures.

scholarly journals Investigating the impact of Innovative Treatments on Driving Behavior at School Bus Stops: A Driving Simulator Study

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mustafa Suhail Almallah ◽  
Shabna Sayed Mohammed ◽  
Qinaat Hussain ◽  
Wael K. M. Alhajyaseen
Keyword(s):  
Driving Simulator ◽  
Driving Behavior ◽  
School Bus ◽  
School Buses ◽  
Bus Stop ◽  
Typical Condition ◽  
Simulator Study ◽  
And Control ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Traveling Speed

The illegal overtaking/crossing of stopped school buses has been identified as one of the leading causes of students’ injuries and fatalities. The likelihood of students in getting involved in a school bus-related crash increases during loading/unloading. The main objective of this driving simulator study was to study the effectiveness of different treatments in improving students’ safety by reducing the illegal overtaking/crossing of stopped school buses. Treatments used in this research are LED, Road Narrowing and Red Pavement. All proposed treatments were compared with the control condition (i.e., typical condition in the State of Qatar). Seventy-two subjects with valid Qatari driving license were invited to participate in this study. Each subject was exposed to three situations (i.e., Situation 1: the school bus is stopped in the same traveling direction, Situation 2: the school bus is stopped in the opposite traveling direction, Situation 3: the school bus is not present at the bus stop). Results showed that LED and Road Narrowing treatments were effective in reducing the illegal overtaking/crossing of stopped school buses. Moreover, the stopping behavior for drivers in LED and Road Narrowing was more consistent compared to the Red Pavement and control conditions. Finally, LED and Road Narrowing treatments motivated drivers to reduce their traveling speed by 5.16 km/h and 5.11 km/h, respectively, even with the absence of the school bus. Taking into account the results from this study, we recommend the proposed LED and Road Narrowing as potentially effective treatments to improve students’ safety at school bus stop locations.

Studying Driving Behavior on Horizontal Curves using Naturalistic Driving Study Data

2018 ◽  
Vol 2672 (17) ◽  
pp. 83-95 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bashar Dhahir ◽  
Yasser Hassan
Keyword(s):  
Data Collection ◽  
Weather Conditions ◽  
Driving Behavior ◽  
Study Data ◽  
Output Analysis ◽  
Horizontal Curves ◽  
Naturalistic Driving Study ◽  
Naturalistic Driving ◽  
Design Consistency ◽  
Favorable Weather

Many studies have been conducted to develop models to predict speed and driver comfort thresholds on horizontal curves, and to evaluate design consistency. The approaches used to develop these models differ from one another in data collection, data processing, assumptions, and analysis. However, some issues might be associated with the data collection that can affect the reliability of collected data and developed models. In addition, analysis of speed behavior on the assumption that vehicles traverse horizontal curves at a constant speed is far from actual driving behavior. Using the Naturalistic Driving Study (NDS) database can help overcome problems associated with data collection. This paper aimed at using NDS data to investigate driving behavior on horizontal curves in terms of speed, longitudinal acceleration, and comfort threshold. The NDS data were valuable in providing clear insight on drivers’ behavior during daytime and favorable weather conditions. A methodology was developed to evaluate driver behavior and was coded in Matlab. Sensitivity analysis was performed to recommend values for the parameters that can affect the output. Analysis of the drivers’ speed behavior and comfort threshold highlighted several issues that describe how drivers traverse horizontal curves that need to be considered in horizontal curve design and consistency evaluation.

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