1.Human factor studies
• Human factor studies involve studies focused on evaluating the effect of Human Machine Interface (HMI) such as automated voice and In-Vehicle Information Systems (IVIS) such as navigation and cell phone.
• Presence of these equipment present drivers with additional information that might be distractive to the driver.
2. Evaluating effects of road infrastructure on the driver
• Road infrastructures can be modeled into the simulation to study driver reaction.
• For example, driver reaction to an urban road with lane closure for work zone.
3. Modeling of driving behavior
• Driver behavior and psychology can be studied for different scenarios that cannot be studied in real world using a simulator.
• For example, drivers’ tendency to take control of an autonomous vehicle when feeling endangered.
4. Evaluating driver performance and impairment
• Driver behavior under hazardous driving conditions can be studied safely using a driving simulator.
• The discrepancy in people’s driving ability with age, gender, etc. can also be evaluated by designing similar driving scenarios and collecting data from several subjects.
• For example, studying the effect of alcohol use on driving ability of different individuals.
5. Vehicle design studies
• Automobile manufacturers use driving simulators to study the effects of vehicle design on driving behavior and driver preferences.
• These simulators are different from those used in research.
• These simulators are usually very expensive.
