Experimental investigation on speed control using a driving simulator

The paper presents the results of a virtual reality experiment that is a development of a preceding research project. This phase evaluates driving behaviour in controlled simulation conditions. The experiment is composed of 16 driving tests in which different visual stimuli are proposed (subliminal or not). The first element of distinction concerns the operational speed. Each test is conducted in two versions: in the first case driving behaviour is unrestricted; in the second the system produces a visual stimulus if a speed of 50 km/h or above is reached. Also, when the driving is restricted, the vehicle blocks speeds above 60 km/h. The results demonstrate that the visual stimulus (signal) only has a noticeable effect on a curve. On a straight stretch and in both tests, the speed limits are exceeded on the same sections of the route. The results show that the subjects correctly identify both stimuli and quickly adapt their driving behaviour.