Eugene I. Farber

Modeling Vision with Headlights in a Systems Context

The Headlamp Evaluation Model accepts as input the candlepower patterns of the headlamp system being evaluated and provides a measures of driver visual performance based on a large number of simulated seeing distance tests and glare discomfort checks on a standardized test route. The output of the Model, termed the Figure of Merit, is the percentage of the distance traveled by the simulated driver on the standardized test route in which the seeing distance to pedestrians and pavement lines, and the discomfort glare levels experienced by opposing drivers, simultaneously meet certain acceptance criteria. /SASI/

A Computerized Evaluation System for Automotive Controls and Displays

A two-part procedure has been developed at Ford Motor Company to assist the human factors practitioner in a systematic evaluation of automotive controls and displays. The first part is a data-gathering procedure using an automated branching human factors checklist. The second part is a scoring procedure which assesses characteristics of the control or display based on human factors criteria. The contents of both parts can be easily modified to accommodate enhancements. The procedure also has value as a training and educational tool.

DRIVER EYE HEIGHT AND SIGHT DISTANCE ON VERTICAL CURVES

Analyses were performed to determine the sensitivity of stopping sight distance on vertical curves to driver eye height and other parameters entering into the stopping sight-distance equations. Sight distance was found to be relatively insensitive to eye height. On a given hill crest, sight distance for a driver whose eye height is 6-inches lower than the design eye height (3.75 ft) is only 5% less than the design sight distance. On the other hand, stopping distance is very sensitive to travel speed, pavement friction and reaction time.