Analysis of Driver Reaction Time Using the Acquisition of Biosignals

Analysis of Driver Reaction Time Using the Acquisition of Biosignals

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Nowadays determination of driver’s reaction time has become a main characteristic in the field of traffic accidents. Duration of driver reaction time is the main characteristic of driver himself and his behavior in the phase right before collision. This article is a part of an ongoing research project concerning innovative technique of biosignals’ acquisition. The goal of this work is to distinguish and analyze driver reaction time and individual components of this reaction time (especially time needed for the decision and muscle response) and interaction between driver and vehicle in detail. For this purpose a combination of conventional methods, i.e. eye-tracking, and methods used for biosignals’ acquisition, i.e. electromyography, has been proposed. Eye-tracking method is used to measure a view direction or eye movements relative to a head. This paper describes a use of the video-based eye-tracker combining a video images and a pupil reflection exploiting an infrared light. The driver’s neuromuscular dynamic is important aspect of the interaction of driver and vehicle. Measurements of voltage during muscle activation (electromyography, EMG) are used to identify the muscles involved in interaction of driver and brake pedal. The main focus of this article is to determine all components of driver’s reaction time involving experiments in real traffic. Additional evaluation is used as a basis for analyses of driver’s behavior and reaction time in each respective situation. Results of this research could be beneficial for detailed investigation of the effects that have impact on the extension of reaction time which can lead to accidents.

Nowadays determination of driver’s reaction time has become a main characteristic in the field of traffic accidents. Duration of driver reaction time is the main characteristic of driver himself and his behavior in the phase right before collision. This article is a part of an ongoing research project concerning innovative technique of biosignals’ acquisition. The goal of this work is to distinguish and analyze driver reaction time and individual components of this reaction time (especially time needed for the decision and muscle response) and interaction between driver and vehicle in detail. For this purpose a combination of conventional methods, i.e. eye-tracking, and methods used for biosignals’ acquisition, i.e. electromyography, has been proposed. Eye-tracking method is used to measure a view direction or eye movements relative to a head. This paper describes a use of the video-based eye-tracker combining a video images and a pupil reflection exploiting an infrared light. The driver’s neuromuscular dynamic is important aspect of the interaction of driver and vehicle. Measurements of voltage during muscle activation (electromyography, EMG) are used to identify the muscles involved in interaction of driver and brake pedal. The main focus of this article is to determine all components of driver’s reaction time involving experiments in real traffic. Additional evaluation is used as a basis for analyses of driver’s behavior and reaction time in each respective situation. Results of this research could be beneficial for detailed investigation of the effects that have impact on the extension of reaction time which can lead to accidents.