Citation

Schiro J, Gabrielli F, Pudlo P, Djemai M, Barbier F. Transp. Res. F Traffic Psychol. Behav. 2013; 21: 133-145.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.trf.2013.09.003

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The pattern of hand positioning varies considerably as drivers attempt to steer through sharp turns at low speed. The technique chosen by the driver should be the best compromise between car control and driver safety (i.e. airbag deployment). The purpose of this study was to assess different steering techniques in order to characterize the drivers steering profile, defined by tracking hand position. Authors propose a graphical method and a lateral indicator to define driver steering profiles. Tracking of hand steering position in twenty three volunteers with no upper arm disabilities was undertaken with a motion capture system. The steering exercise occurred in a simulator.

RESULTS from the hand tracking of steering indicate three distinct driver profiles of: hand-crossing (52%), non-hand-crossing (30%) and asymmetric-hand-crossing (17%). Most subjects steer with one hand and crossed hands often. This present a safety issue for the airbag deploying.