Vision & Cognition Laboratory |
Driver Distraction We are exploring how to predict the sources and effects of driver distraction using an "integrated model" approach. This approach centers on combining our integrated driver model with models of behavior for secondary tasks (e.g., dialing a cell phone) and predicting the behavior that arises from their interaction. In various studies, we have successfully modeled the distractions effects of tasks such as cell-phone dialing and radio tuning, as well as effects of primarily cognitive tasks. We have also modeled the age effects between older and younger drivers. The integrated model approach serves as the foundation for a rapid prototyping tool, Distract-R, that allows users to compare and test new, potentially distracting devices in very early stages of design. This approached, combined with new empirical work -- such as our study of iPod distraction -- lay the groundwork for more comprehensive efforts that aim to understand and alleviate driver distraction. Primary References Salvucci, D. D. (2001). Predicting the effects of in-car interface use on driver performance: An integrated model approach. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies, 55, 85-107. Salvucci, D. D. (2005). A multitasking general executive for compound continuous tasks. Cognitive Science, 29, 457-492. Related References Salvucci, D. D. (2006). Modeling driver behavior in a cognitive architecture. Human Factors, 48, 362-380. Salvucci, D. D., & Macuga, K. L. (2002). Predicting the effects of cellular-phone dialing on driver performance. Cognitive Systems Research, 3, 95-102. |
As technology advances at an ever increasing rate, car manufacturers
now have the ability to incorporate increasingly sophisticated devices
in vehicles for both driver support (e.g., navigation aids) and
"infotainment" (e.g., news and email). Such devices may clearly
be helpful, entertaining, or even critical in certain situations;
however they also have the serious potential to lead to "driver
distraction" -- inattention to the primary driving task when performing
a secondary. It is essential that we understand how in-car devices
lead to driver distraction so that we can maintain a safe and pleasant
driving environment for the driver as well as others on the roadway.