Sensitivity Characteristics of Driver’s Body Regions to Airflow Stimulation in Thermal Environment

Yoko Hayashi (Institute of Science Tokyo)･Jongseong Gwak (Takushoku University)･Akinari Hirao (Shibaura Institute of Technology)･Motoki Shino (Institute of Science Tokyo)

Airflow stimuli in the vehicle cabin are sensed through sensory receptors and affect the driver's sense of thermal comfort. In addition, the number of sensory receptors varies depending on the part of the body, and the sensitivity characteristics differ depending on the part. Therefore, in this study, in order to realize a thermal environment that is comfortable and maintains arousal, we investigated the sensitivity characteristics when airflow stimuli are blown onto the forearms, back of the neck, and lower legs.

Structure of Model to Quantify Psychological Aspects of Tactile Feedback of Switches (Second Report)

Yuya Nanaeda･Hideki Sakamoto (Alps Alpine)･Shoichiro Takehara (Sophia University)

Switches equipped in the cabin of automobiles require various tactile feedbacks depending on their purposes for each user. In the previous report, the necessity to consider differences in individual preferences was indicated. In this study, we classified examinees by clustering based on subjective evaluation results of tactile feedbacks. As a result, we constructed multiple regression models showed correlation between tactile feedbacks and mechanical properties for each cluster.

Study on extraction of sensory evaluation words for automobile steering systems using evaluation grid method

Yudai Hoshino (Graduate School of Sophia University)･Shoichiro Takehara (Sophia University)･Katsunori Tanaka･Ryo Nakada (Nissan Motor)

Steering behavior is an important factor for comfort in automobiles. In this study, we attempted to extract evaluation factors for the psychology of steering by passengers by using the evaluation grid method, in which a driving simulator is used to perform driving where factors related to steering are varied. From the obtained evaluation structure, we extracted the evaluation words related to the sensibility of automobile steering systems.

Quantification of Straight-Line Stability Using a New Approach
-Application to Chauffeur Car Development-

Toshiki Morita･Nagataka Sassa･Tomoyuki Katayama･Nobuaki Minami (Toyota Motor)

Based on sensory comments and vehicle data, we are continuing performance development. However, discrepancies in perception among stakeholders persist, making the quantification of sensory evaluation metrics a long-standing challenge. We focused on quantifying straight-line stability, essential for driving performance, with the full cooperation of skilled evaluators, emphasizing head movements related to sensory perception. We also applied this in a project.

Development of a Measurement System for Steering Operation and Grip Forces Toward Objective Evaluation of Steering Feel

Hideaki Shibue (S&VL)

Steering feel is an important factor that affects vehicle drivability and comfort, and its objective evaluation requires quantitative measurement of the mechanical interaction between the driver and the vehicle. In this study, we developed a system that can measure steering wheel operating force and grip force with high accuracy and responsiveness by optimizing the sensor configuration, layout, and calculation method.

Effects of Video Viewing and Reflection on Reducing Driving Anxiety in Novice Drivers

Yukiko Nishizaki･Chihiro Shumiya･Hajime Yoshida (Kyoto Institute of Technology)･Shin Hirano (Panasonic Holdings)･Motoyuki Okayama (Panasonic Automotive Systems)･Yukihiro Morita (Panasonic Holdings)

This study aimed to reduce driving anxiety in novice drivers by examining the effects of video viewing before and after driving through a driving simulator (DS) experiment. The results showed that watching instructional videos prior to driving as a form of pre-learning led to a reduction in anxiety. Furthermore, reflecting on their own driving by watching a video after the session significantly reduced anxiety levels and encouraged safer driving behavior.

Verification of 180-degree rotating armrest console rigidity through analysis

Dongmin Kim (KOMOS)

This study focuses on the structural and rigidity verification through various analyses for the development of a 180-degree rotating armrest console among variable console systems. Unlike existing console armrest products, it opens 180-degree, so it must satisfy not only the existing rigidity but also the rigidity when opened. In addition, the safety of the rear seat passengers must be ensured. Therefore, the problems of this 180-degree rotating armrest console are pre-verified and analyzed through analysis.